The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the best selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in both design and function to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were able to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

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

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it could take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce 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 is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their Stylish Catwalk Collection: Women's Vintage Brown Leather Tote bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, nearby launched in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and fun that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

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 rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in a variety of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a Timeless Elegance: SCOFY FASHION Vintage Leather Shoulder Bag addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It's a boxy, feminine accessory.

Whether you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.