The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to think about. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and designer handbags green What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags 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 from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in style and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags transformed 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 elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required to carry war supplies. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now allowed to experiment with their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise 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 by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, 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 style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.

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 eclectic style and large 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 worn by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. 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. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the designer handbags for ladies bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also has various vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best Designer Handbags Green bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and 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 however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.