The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled the top designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

In WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these modern 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 agenda and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

designer handbags chanel bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it may take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't live with out a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer handbags for work bags around is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Additionally other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are also many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags black handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. It is described as "a work of art" by its designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or want to create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the ideal way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.