The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. 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 brands handbags.

In the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of bags required for war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather and designer handbags cheap chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

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. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you can't live without a designer bag or want to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Other designer handbags Cheap 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 the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from its signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on a variety of runway looks during the last 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 an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a high-end 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 combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its innovative design and Designer Handbags Cheap CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags 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 company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This selection includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags 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 with both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.