The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around 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 fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as the designers of gorgeous and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and a greater choice regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person 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 were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you can't live without a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since shifted away from the 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 version of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold 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 method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed 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 acclaim for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand have a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are also many other designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the Stylish Unisex Black Laptop Backpack - 17 Inch - USB Charging one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, Onlinedesignerhandbags.Uk has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

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