The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care the value of it will increase over time.

We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced 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 early 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were in a position to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it can take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Other online designer handbag outlet bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with young people.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from this logo style and has released other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is only available to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The brand's bags also feature a perfect blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury 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-awarded designs. Designer bags from the brand are modern interpretations 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 best known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication 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 a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer handbags popular bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

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

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. Described as "a piece of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct leather components and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen numerous of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could be your new favorite designer bag.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable 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 Designer Handbags and Purses everyone.