The Best of designer handbags and purses (see more)

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to think about. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

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

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many fashions.

During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were able to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains, and even chainmail. 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 agenda and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain 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. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look 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, became famous through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. 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 instantly elevate any look.

If you prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

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

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are many other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for all. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element names of designer handbags interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It combines functionality and geometric design. Described as "a masterpiece" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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

Many stars have been seen wearing bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.