The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to think about. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that handbags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried by women were looser. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now in a position to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and became a key element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were sought-after by women who wanted their style. Due to the demand, it may take months or even weeks to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer handbags uk bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

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, designer handbags and purses such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. 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. Its signature feminine but casual style can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Additionally other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. The bags of the brand have a unique mix of sophistication and fun that makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

There are also many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in a variety of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more 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 come in a range of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most sought-after 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 the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. It 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 favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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. 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.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing 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 everyday designer 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 a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.