The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits.

During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were able to explore their own style.

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

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, 1109278.xyz for instance was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it could take weeks, even months, to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

There are numerous designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular 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 favourites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for 1109278.xyz its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are many other designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides various sizes and colors. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another option to think about is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with geometric design. The bag is described as "a piece of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

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 is a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.