The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create bags needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and is still seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

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 were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after in the present, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, onlinedesignerhandbags which came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also growing in popularity among the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

If you prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are numerous designer names who are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. 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 of the brand also have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish 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 distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and onlinedesignerhandbags the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate Chic Beige Leather Crossbody Handbag: Theft-proof Elegance! pieces and a lot skill to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks Shop the Michael Kors Bedford Designer Shoulder Bag carefully curated collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.