The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales such as 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 were fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as Designer handbags list handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create the bags that were needed for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A range of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains, and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. 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 emulate their fashion. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it could take weeks, or even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live without a designer bag or want to add some timeless fashion to your 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 shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have earned 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. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also gaining popularity among the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, such as 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 as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes There's something for all. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather components and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbags large handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.