The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled the top designers to consider. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now 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 and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions in the present.

During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make bags required to carry war supplies. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years unlike other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you can't be without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after in the present, with long wait 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 look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from its signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual look 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.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide an ideal 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 bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are made with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. For example, a luxury fashion brand Designer Handbags London like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bags that have made their mark 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 designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

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, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied with a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric design. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer the geometric-shaped Designer handbags london bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products 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 simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer yellow handbags backpacks.