The Best of designer handbags and purses (find out here)

Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the best selection, we've compiled the top designers to think about. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

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

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you can't live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion 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 seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the early 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 in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Designer handbags and purses Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from this logo design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its ready-to-wear clothing with exquisite details. Its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and style.

designer handbags amazon Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs, and the brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.

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 designs, colors and shapes There's something for everyone. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to a resale information report by 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 Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and 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 constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer handbags brown bags at Saks is sure to have something for all.