The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best selection, we've compiled the top designers to look at. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites such as 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, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained 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 styles that are still seen in many outfits in the present.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for the war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular since women were allowed to experiment with their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are well-known, sales rise. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it could take weeks, even months to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to live without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced 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 conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the last season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the Kate Spade Jackson Pebbled Leather Flap Shoulder Bag using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials Briggs And Riley ZDX 53cm Carry-On Duffle: Hunter distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like 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 bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unique blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bags brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with various colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for every person. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.

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

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.