The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer handbags for cheap bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

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

designer handbags discounted bags are usually named after famous people and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be 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 that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern 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 renowned for its upscale clothing that has couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

If you prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for Designer handbags Discounted its playful and contemporary style of bag design. The brand's bags have a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are also many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers various colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The most stylish 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 staples that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer handbags names bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration for designer handbags discounted the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its stitching 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 is a boxy but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.