The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase with time.

To assist you in making the best selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

Bags became more popular as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what a woman could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were allowed to experiment with their own fashion.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it can take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you can't live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer handbags list bag that's also growing in popularity among the millennials.

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 like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident 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.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is only available to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbags green bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are numerous fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have 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 bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bags outlet online bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This selection includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. Described as "a work of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row 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 both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.