The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and take good care of it its value will increase with time.

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

Designer Bags: A Short History

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory and also a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take months or even weeks to find 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 lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent option for those who cannot be without a designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags of all time.

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 eclectic style 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 fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer handbags sale bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a 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, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

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

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand have an exclusive blend of class and fun that attracts young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer Handbags on amazon bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and offers various sizes and colors. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition 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 every person. This selection includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato, but with twists. The strap is tied in knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as 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. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, like 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 next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.