The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

designer handbags women's bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care the value of it will increase over time.

We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in design and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that handbags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were in a position to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using chains, 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 returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. Due to high demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer Handbags Chanel bags from the past will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who can't be without a designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long wait lists and is believed to be one of the most iconic designer handbags in history.

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 Givenchy's 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 as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its supple 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 method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer handbags green brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags are also a a perfect balance of function and fashion 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 modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun style of bag design. The bags of the brand have an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

There are also many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand offers various colors and Designer Handbags Chanel sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato with a twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric shapes. It is described as "a piece of art" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

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

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.