The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase with time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains, and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and modern styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the high demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to be without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have achieved 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 Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also growing in popularity among the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather and 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. The bag is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

There are many designer names who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. While 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 clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags are also a the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, onlinedesignerhandbags which was launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and onlinedesignerhandbags 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 rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an Elegant Designer Shoulder Bag - Laptop Tote addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many designs, onlinedesignerhandbags colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a piece of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

If you're in search of a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.