The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as 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 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and also a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to change from being practical and onlinedesignerhandbags.Uk become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were able to explore their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and can still be seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. 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. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs this season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a 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. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are many fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful handbags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a high-end 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, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unique blend of class 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 offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

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

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the HUGO Ethon 2.0 F_ns Black Zip Reporter: Designer Handbag Must-Have with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. Described as "a work of art" by its designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

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 next designer bag. It's a boxy, feminine accessory.

If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.