The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can 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 right choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to consider. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s that handbags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still found in many fashions.
In WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for the war. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were free to explore their own style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and is still seen on the arms of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great option for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized 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 that came into the spotlight after being worn by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among the millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the last season.
The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any look.
For those who prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that purses can be more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.
While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function 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 world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand have a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also has various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the designer handbags fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for all. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for a long time.
According to a resale statistics report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and copyright bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by the public and the critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.
Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.