The Best of designer handbags list Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase as time passes.

We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in both design and function to what we recognize as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

In WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. Many of these styles 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 became a significant aspect of the fashion world. 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 and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it can take weeks, or even months, to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from its signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. 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 elevate any outfit.

For those who 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. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, including 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.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.