The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to look at. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used 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 know today as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for wartime. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to play around with their personal fashion.

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

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

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

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who can't be without the latest designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and Bags 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 conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles this season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine but 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 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, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinct design.

There are numerous fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful handbags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with their stylish 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-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bags brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers various colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

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 a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for every person. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to a resale data report from The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and 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, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars 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 boxy but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

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