The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take good care of it the value of it will increase as time passes.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled the top designers to consider. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in design and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers used less metal and other materials to make bags required to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now able to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains and chainmail. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent option for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor Designer Handbags of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have earned 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 Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable people and is another bag from the designer that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and Designer Handbags accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are 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, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand have an exclusive blend of class and fun that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 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). Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities, from 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 touch luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.