The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. 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 see as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many wardrobes.

During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for the war. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

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

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you can't live with out an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after in the present, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most famous designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. 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. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs in the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide 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 practical accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer 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 among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Moreover, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides various colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and love moschino Designer black shoulder bag - 15x19x4 colors and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Love Moschino Designer Black Shoulder Bag - 15X19X4 Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added 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 real classic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric design. The bag is described as "a piece of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of Exquisite J. Wilson London Ladies Clutch: Genuine Leather Designer Handbag and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers Love Moschino Designer Black Shoulder Bag - 15x19x4 (visit the up coming website) the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.