The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles which are still seen in many wardrobes.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman 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 able to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it could take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.

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

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable 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 spotted on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and 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, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own designer handbags amazon bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes and Designer Handbags Black styles that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been coveted for a long time.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products 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 thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.