The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable and also a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as the designers of gorgeous and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for wartime. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person became looser. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were able to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

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

Designer bags are usually named after a Famous handbag Designers person and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it can take weeks, even months to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who can't live without an expensive bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most famous designer handbags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since shifted away from the signature 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 version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks in the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful bags. While iconic 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 clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its contemporary and famous Handbag designers playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer handbags sale outlet uk bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer handbags large bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and comes with various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.

According to a resale statistics 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 highly sought-after by the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand with twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.