The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens 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 as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

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

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person became looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now in a position to experiment with their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and modern styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and is still seen on the arms of celebrities and Online Designer Handbags models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it can take months, or even weeks to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles 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 aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create the perfect combination of 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 functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

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

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to a resale information report by 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 Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and online Designer handbags 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 bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind late fashion Online Designer handbags Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by 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 boxy, feminine accessory.

If you're in search of an elegant new McQueen clutch or create a Stylish Nicole And Doris Fashion Bag in Wine Red statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.