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 an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, View Details became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked 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 of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to get your hands 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 timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live with out a Designer Yellow handbags bag or to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags 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 eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from the signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look can be seen 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 elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags are also a the perfect balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. 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 posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorites. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are also many other designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand offers various sizes and colors. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer yellow handbags bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes There's something for every person. This collection includes both brand Download free new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples 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 Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.