The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

To assist you in making the best selection, we've compiled the top designers to consider. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many outfits.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable as women were able to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags of all time.

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 an edgy look and large 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 a lot of attention because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable people and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

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

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

If you prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for Designer Handbags women's its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers various colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for all. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

For a more contemporary Designer handbags women's bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its cheap designer bags as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front row 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 functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

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

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.