The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

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

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money 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 see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were able to explore their own fashion.

The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. 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 success in the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

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

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who cannot live without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item 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. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways in the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and 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 technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for Onlinedesignerhandbags its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Onlinedesignerhandbags Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of Roulens Vegan Leather Crossbody: Stylish Triple Zip Design bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for every person. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

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 and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both critics and fans.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the WEDMAY Black Designer Tote Bag: Exquisite Elegance for Women with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Many stars have been seen in bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for all.