The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag, and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to consider. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as online designer handbag outlet handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for wartime. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were now free to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it could take months, or even weeks, to find one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, 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 investment for those who can't be without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of 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 conceal the beginning 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 in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item The brand has shifted away from this logo style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive 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 eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with high-quality materials and have distinct design.

There are many luxury fashion designers 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. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark 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 designs. 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 fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & 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 purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with sculptural geometry. It is described as "a work of art" by the designer handbags cheap the geometric-shaped designer handbags on sale bag is said to require 75 parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like 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 next favorite designer bag.

If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.