The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make bags needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women became looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were in a position to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

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

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after today, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways over the past 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 aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a more minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are many designer names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer handbags for ladies bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury 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 like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have 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 a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer handbags women's bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as classics that have been coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and 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 critics and fans.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. The designer handbags used handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

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

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, including 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.

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.