The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, famous handbag designers The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make the bags that were required to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now in a position to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious style of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous Handbag designers people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months, to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion that come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without a designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after and has long wait lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures as well as other notable 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 introduced other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode 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 eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Famous handbag designers Chanel are well-known There are many other designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The brand's bags also feature a perfect balance of function and fashion and 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 market for designer bags. 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, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like 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 made of the signature intercciato of the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors and the black one 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 bag is described as "a piece of art" by its designer handbags large the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.