Check Out: How Designer Handbags And Purses Is Taking Over And What To Do About It

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales like 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 gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags were fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in design and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits in the present.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and modern styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales increase. For  cheap designer bags , Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. Due to the high 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 come and go at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of 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 pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from this logo style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. 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 elevate any look.

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 bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers 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 ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. 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 that is known for its innovative 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 posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest 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 Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of modern and classic styles. The brand provides a variety of sizes and colors. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for all. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for all.