The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and Designer Handbags large maintain it with care the value of it will increase as time passes.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags women's handbags.

It was during the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions in the present.

In WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were free to experiment with their own style.

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

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and is still found on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it can take weeks, even months to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who can't live without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern version of the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its signature feminine but casual aesthetic can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a more minimalist 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. The bag is the perfect balance 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 functional accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The brand's bags also feature an ideal balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with stylish designer bags 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-awarded styles. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire 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 introduced various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for every person. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some classics that have remained coveted for years to come.

According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato, but with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many celebrities 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 is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could be your new favorite designer bag.

If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.