The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it the value of it will increase over time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Handbags 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 call designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

In WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for wartime. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were able to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for designer Handbags names example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it can take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer handbags for work bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most iconic designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with young people.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from the signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a less formal 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 blend of style and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who are known for their stunning bags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for designer handbags Names women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer handbags names (you can find out more) bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also launched various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes There's something for everyone. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with 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 more literal twist: the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a work of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.