The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags required for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

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

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it can take months, or even weeks to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you can't live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from this logo design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and LeahWard Satin Clutch Bag: Perfect For Parties was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine Jocose Moose: Chic Women's Laptop Tote Bag clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied 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 Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also launched various vegan bags that 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 that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the 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 both critics and fans.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its products on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen LeahWard Satin Clutch Bag: Perfect for Parties or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.