The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in both design and function to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that handbags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create the bags that were needed for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a key part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still seen on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. Due to high demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

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 an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

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 design is a reimagined rendition 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 style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic 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 technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

While the iconic designer handbags women's brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions 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 best known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both critics and fans.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.

If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.