The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many outfits.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the classic, 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 seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the 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 early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most Famous Handbag Designers designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced 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 version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its ready-to-wear 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 with a gold chain strap will instantly 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 that is only available to this Italian label. It 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're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinct design.

There are many designer names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

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

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as classics that have remained coveted for years to come.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. It is described as "a piece of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the ideal way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.