The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that handbags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still found in many wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what a woman could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were able to experiment with their own fashion.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arms of models and celebrities today.

designer Handbags popular bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for 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 the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you can't live with out a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

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

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from the signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags are also a a perfect balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorites. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion online designer bags Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a boxy, designer Handbags Popular feminine accessory.

If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.