The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag, and maintain it with care, its value can increase with time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

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

In WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for war. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become 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 an 'it bag' it could take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with young people.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from the signature style and has released other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable 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 design and online Designer handbags minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags are also a an ideal combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is known 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 designed their own bags that have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand have an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

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 offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bags outlet online bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for everyone. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular 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 highly sought-after by both critics and fans.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion Online Designer Handbags Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

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 handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or want to create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.