The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together the top designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of 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 entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create bags required to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were allowed to play around with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, Stylish Silver Leather Cross Body Shoulder Bag - LeahWard and chains. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people 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 coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you don't want to live with out a designer bag or Online Designer Handbags want to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered 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 flair and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item The brand has shifted away from its signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways in the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather Chic And Lightweight Rose Gold Designer Suitcase Set Stunning Gold Sequin Envelope Clutch: Exquisite Designer Handbag chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide a perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

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 an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature a perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and comes with an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand with a twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.