The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it the value of it will increase as time passes.
We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in style and function, to what we see as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were in a position to play around with their personal style.
The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the arm of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. 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. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you can't live with out a designer bag or to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.
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 that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its handbags. 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 instantly elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.
There are many designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer 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 established 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 bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its modern and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand offers an array of 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 can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.
According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and copyright bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a work of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather designer handbags and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.
Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.
These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.