The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

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

In WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular since women were allowed to explore their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie culture affected fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it could take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great option for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer handbags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable people and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from the signature style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous 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 known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbags list bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorites. For example, Staud, designer handbags and purses which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs and comes with an array of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato 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 various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of skill to create. 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 row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen in 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 bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.