The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in design and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that handbags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were able to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and brands the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and is still seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. 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 their style. Due to the high demand, it could take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide 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 iconic designer bags ever made.

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 with an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand Brown slim kings loot Bifold credit card wallet was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather Chic And Spacious: David Jones Large Tote Handbag! gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.

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

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark 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. Designer bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer Stylish Dark Gray Canvas Messenger Bag for Men/Women is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for all. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen numerous of its items on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Many stars have been seen in bags by other designers, like 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 boxy, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.