The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled the top designers to think about. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.

In WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for war. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early 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 in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from this logo design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh 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 couture details. Its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. 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 of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Moreover, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles There's something for all. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale data report from The RealReal, the most popular 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 Versatile Black Cotton Tote Bag: Ideal for DIY - Advertising And Promotions are still popular with the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato, but with a twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It's a boxy, feminine accessory.

Whether you're looking for a brand fpcom.co.kr new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.