The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.
To help you make the best selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to look at. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable and a practical tool 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 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, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many wardrobes.
During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were able to experiment with their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and even chainmail. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags from the past will last for years unlike other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags ever made.
Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs this season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
If you prefer a more 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's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.
There are numerous luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags are also a an ideal combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and 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 clothing and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle designer handbags sale outlet uk Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been coveted for a long time.
According to a resale statistics report from The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and copyright bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both critics and fans.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directionally stitched.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.