The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase with time.

To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to consider. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer handbags for ladies bags led to the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of bags required to carry war supplies. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now allowed to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

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

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who can't be without the latest designer Handbags green 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 the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained 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. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

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 eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from its signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, designer Handbags Green there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. 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 by the brand offer a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for every person. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to a resale data 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 Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

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