The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To help you make the best selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still found in many outfits.

In WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for war. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women became looser. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were in a position to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and is still seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it could take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot live without a designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The Birkin was first launched 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 conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most famous designer handbags ever made.

Other designer handbags green bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a more minimalist 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 is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags are also a an ideal balance of function and fashion 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 a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

There are also many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.

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 and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been coveted for a long time.

According to a resale statistics report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 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 like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer handbags black bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products 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 quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen in bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.