The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase as time passes.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII the 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 were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from this logo style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

For those who prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and an exclusive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are many fashion designers that create a mark with their beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature an ideal blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of modern and classic styles. The brand comes in various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes There's something for every person. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Designer Handbags and Purses Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by critics and fans.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the muse for late fashion designer handbags black Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.