The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it its value will increase as time passes.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for wartime. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now in a position to play around with their personal fashion.

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

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the demand, it could take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.

Other designer bags that have earned 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 design and authentic Italian Grained Pu leather designer handbag tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. 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 contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce 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 pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Authentic Italian Grained PU Leather Designer Handbag label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

There are many luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and 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 clothing and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature 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 bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides various sizes and colors. 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 a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of 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 is available in a variety of colors and the Maymooner Black Tote Bag: Stylish And Spacious Designer one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.