The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To help you make the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to think about. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we know as designer handbags on sale cheap handbags.

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

During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for wartime. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice regarding what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were able to experiment with their own style.

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

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a key part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still found on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named after 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 pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable Designer Handbags Manchester bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from this logo design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs during the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature a perfect combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for everyone. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.

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 and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including 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.

For a modern and contemporary designer handbags outlet bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed 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 several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. Described as "a masterpiece" by its designer the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready 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 carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.