The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now allowed to explore their own fashion.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of 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 earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead, Designer handbags women's it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft 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. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. designer handbags white bags are made with high-quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are numerous fashion designers that create a mark with their beautiful handbags. The iconic designer Handbags Women's brands like Louis Vuitton or Designer handbags Women's Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end 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 offer the perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses 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 contemporary brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer handbags sale bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides an array of sizes and colors. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & 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 purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

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

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.