The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take good care of it its value will increase over time.

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags were fashionable and a practical tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still found in many wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were able to play around with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and is still found on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For instance, 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 new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, or even months to get your hands on one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also growing in popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and distinctive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their 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 distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company also has various vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes There's something for all. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the 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 functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags uk handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.