The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round 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 necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now able to explore their own style.

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

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still found on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months, to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you can't live with out a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's 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 prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from the logo 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 version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

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, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

designer handbags for ladies Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinct design.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags by the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with various colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety 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 best designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as 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 purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", bag reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.