The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we see as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were in a position to play around with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

designer handbags uk sale bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted their style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who can't be without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from the signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

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

If you prefer a more minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.

designer handbags uk sale Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are crafted using high-quality materials and have an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer 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 clothes for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained popularity with its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers a variety of sizes and colors. 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 most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

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

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.