The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and maintain it with care the value of it will increase over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We collected data from reputable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

It was during the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and online Designer Handbag outlet Hermes quickly gained an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits.

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

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

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

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to high demand, it may take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbags used handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

There are a variety of fashion designers that are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and online designer handbag outlet accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo and 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-awarded designs. The Online Designer Handbag Outlet bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

There are also many other designer handbags sale bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides a variety of colors and sizes. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.

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 & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.