The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To help you make the best decision, we've put together the top designers to look at. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in design and function, to what we see as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, names Of designer handbags became fashionable since women were allowed to explore their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it could take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who can't be without an expensive 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 in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer handbags women's 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 that has an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you 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, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion statement 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.

There are a variety of designer names who are known for Names of Designer handbags their stunning bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names of designer handbags [via highwave.kr]. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags are also a an ideal combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and 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 known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded 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 company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and fun that makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand offers a variety of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed 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 like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the 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 due to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.