The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief 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 necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of online designer bags bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many fashions.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were once considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains, and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major aspect of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and brands is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

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 an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional accessories. A affordable designer handbags uk handbag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

In addition, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and whimsy, making 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 world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags 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. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with geometric design. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct leather components and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many stars have been seen in 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 but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.