The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create bags required to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to play around with their personal style.

The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, onlinedesignerhandbags space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't be without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most famous designer handbags of all time.

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 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, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling 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 modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple 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, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinct design.

There are many designer names who are known for their stunning handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses 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 distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies 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 rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

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 and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

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

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. It is described as "a work of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, onlinedesignerhandbags another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.