The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call 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 the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for the war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and a greater choice regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and modern styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item The brand has shifted away from this logo design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a more minimalist 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's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

There are a variety of designer names who are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function, with 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 designer handbags chanel bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing 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 created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A online designer handbags bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and online Designer handbags colors that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer bags 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, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available 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 shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot 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 fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag named after the inspiration for late fashion designer handbags used Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directionally stitched.

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

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.