The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were now free to explore their own style.

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

In the 1990s, designer bags outlet online bags were back on the agenda and became a significant part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, like the classic, structured purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it can take weeks, even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live with out a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after 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 conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most iconic designer handbags Amazon handbags in history.

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

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles 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 style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will 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. It is 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 lover you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

There are many fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo and 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 shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of modern and classic styles. The brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and designer Handbags amazon Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.