The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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 of changes in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming 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 and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular since women were allowed to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

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

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide 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 recognizable designer bags ever made.

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 silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from its signature style and has released other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, green they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and [Redirect-Java] style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. 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 the perfect balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags 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 such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

For a more contemporary designer handbags white bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a piece of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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

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

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