The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it will increase in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for Elegant Leather Envelope Clutch: Perfect for Evening Events!, stunning bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of bags required for war. The closing of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still found on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it could take weeks, even months, to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and distinctive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature an ideal blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Moreover, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and nearby the critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.