The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take good care of it, its value can increase with time.

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled the top designers to think about. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that handbags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for war. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could 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 in a position to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious style of the era.

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

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to high demand, it may take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live without a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized 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 spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Handbags List Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

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

Other fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer handbags discounted include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashionistas.

There are a variety of 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 designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including 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 sought after with both fans and critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric design. It is described as "a piece of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of 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 rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.