The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy 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 sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from pouches 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 a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

In 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 were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were now free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for Online Designer Handbags example was a huge success during the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months, to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't live without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

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 with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic 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 only available to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create 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 functional accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. These online designer Handbags bags are crafted with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other 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 modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are also many other designer bags brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with 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 of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes both 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 sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by the public and the critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another BOSS Men's Green Catch 2.0ds_ns: Sophisticated Designer Handbag label that has featured numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a boxy, feminine accessory.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.