The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

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 essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still found in many wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required to carry war supplies. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular since women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and is still found on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to high demand, it may take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't live with out a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags ever made.

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 with an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among the 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 released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways in the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For hand Bags instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The Hand Bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and whimsy, which draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bags brands 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 you to lease designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and Hand bags a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive Stylish Red Crossbody Bag: Genuine Nappa Leather bag is both practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags by other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could be your next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from Stylish Red Crossbody Bag: Genuine Nappa Leather shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.