The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it the value of it will increase with time.

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

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in both design and function to what we see as Designer Handbags sale handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. 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 designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many outfits.

During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for wartime. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were once considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take weeks, or even months to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known 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 over her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after in the present, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways in the last season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

There are a variety of fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful handbags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The brand's bags also feature an ideal blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags outlet online bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags based on the season. The company's designer handbags black bags feature an array of modern 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 among 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 many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for all. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

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

For a more contemporary 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 with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a work of art", Designer Handbags Sale reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers such as 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 next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.