The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still found in many wardrobes.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and were a major aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade, and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to high demand, it may take months or even weeks to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most famous designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have an exclusive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are many luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful handbags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The brand's bags also feature an ideal blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their mark with Stylish Tan Distressed Leather Crossbody Bag for Women bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim due to its modern and Near By fun approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and near By influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags Near By the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for everyone. This selection includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale information 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). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some 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.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion 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 muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the ideal way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.