The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and also a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in design and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

In WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. 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 hit during the decade and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't be without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has released other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

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 method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

designer handbags sale outlet uk Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are many luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, 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 offer a perfect blend of function and style 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 was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothing and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands 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 designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles and comes with an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer handbags for cheap bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for a long time.

According to a resale statistics report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and 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 Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. Described as "a piece of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

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

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

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