The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were allowed to experiment with their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A range of new bags 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 modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer handbags pink bags 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 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 bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable people, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from the signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and Designer Handbags its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Moreover, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers various sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite among fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

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

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or create a stylish 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 handbags has everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.