The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag, and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.
We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in style and function, to what we know as designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create bags required to carry war supplies. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women were looser. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their personal style.
The 60s saw the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, 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 is still seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to the high demand, it may take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who can't be without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. This 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 during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after in the present, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer handbags of all time.
Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with millennials.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has released other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs during the last season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.
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, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.
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 handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.
While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous 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 bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.
Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion industry. 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 a mix of contemporary and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. 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 an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in a variety designer handbags on sale of shapes, colors and styles There's something for every person. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have been coveted for years to come.
According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and copyright bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.
If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.