The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to consider. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were now free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit during the decade and is still seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

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. They were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from the signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbags london bag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

There are a variety of designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand Designer Handbags and Purses that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to a resale statistics report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite among fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.

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 a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.