The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it with care its value will increase with time.

We've compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites like 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, bags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in both design and function to what we know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create bags required to carry war supplies. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now allowed to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to high demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer handbags sale bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't be without a designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable people, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has couture details. Its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Moreover other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides various colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for every person. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been coveted for years to come.

According to a resale statistics report by 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). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.

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 with a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. Described as "a work of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and ladies timeless due to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.