The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales 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 fashionable and a practical tool to carry money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During 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 a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to experiment with their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious style of the era.

In the 1990s, designer handbags discounted bags were back on the radar and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles and designer handbags on Amazon the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also gaining popularity with the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead, it has released 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 version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic can be seen in its bags. 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 look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. Designer brands such as 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 sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal 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 their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand designer handbags on amazon are modern interpretations 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 known for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Moreover, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles There's something for all. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as classics that have been coveted for a long time.

According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. 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 with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric shapes. It is described as "a work of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of Designer handbags on Amazon bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.