The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

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

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for wartime. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were allowed to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to high demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. 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 pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer handbags brown bags in history.

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 a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from the signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

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 technique that is exclusive to the 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-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. 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 season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale statistics report from The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with 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 with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

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

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

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