The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were free to explore their own style.

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

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who cannot live without a designer bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and 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. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

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

The brand was founded 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 the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple 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, that is only available to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials Statement-Making Greystone Tote: Alligator And Crocodile Designer Bag have distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are numerous fashion designers that are known for their stunning bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand onlinedesignerhandbags also offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and onlinedesignerhandbags other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh 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 ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among 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 where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in a variety of sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale data 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 the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. Described as "a work of art" by the designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

If you're in search of a new party-ready McQueen clutch or create a stylish 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 fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.