The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it can 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 is Going Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Histories
As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags were fashionable and also a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.
In WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for wartime. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now able to explore their own style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade, and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it may take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion that come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags ever made.
Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with 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 popularity because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from the signature design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs in the past season.
Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes 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 influential model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.
For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.
There are numerous luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses 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 known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini 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 clothes and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Moreover other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. The bags of the brand have an exclusive blend of class and whimsy, which draws the attention of young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.
According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most sought-after 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 Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a piece of art" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical 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 few examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.
If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. From designer handbags for sale and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.