The Best of designer handbags vintage (Suggested Reading) Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

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

In the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for wartime. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

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 Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer handbags sale outlet uk bag that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

The brand was founded 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 bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a less formal style, 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 minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally, other brands have 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 acclaim due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and designer handbags Vintage Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides various sizes and colors. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as 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 elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few 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 want to create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.