The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and also a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in both design and function to what we know as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that handbags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now allowed to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to be 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, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling 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 contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh version of the aughts bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist Chic Champagne Glitter Clutch Bag for Formal Events that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature an ideal blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with Stylish and Classic: Nicole And Doris Black Crossbody Bag designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box 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 clothes for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with various sizes and colors. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

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. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, handbag but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags by other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.