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 with care the value of it will increase as time passes.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were in a position to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture affected fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of models and Designer Handbags Pink celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous 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 sought after in the present, with long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most iconic designer handbags of all time.

Other designer handbags Pink bags that have reached 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. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential 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 eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is only available to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of style and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags are also a the perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of 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 oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in a variety of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for everyone. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some classics that have remained coveted for years to come.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into 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 the most popular.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a piece of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of talent 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 rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer handbags popular backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.