The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

Bags 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 from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in style and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many outfits.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now allowed to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to the demand, it may take months or even weeks to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for affordable Designer handbags uk decades, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you can't be without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of 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 item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic 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 with an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from the signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs this season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

If you prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer yellow handbags brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and affordable designer handbags uk fun that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in various sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A affordable designer Handbags uk bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

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

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a work of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite among fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.