The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will appreciate in value over time.
To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to look at. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we know as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s that handbags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many fashions.
During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create bags needed for war. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were free to experiment with their personal style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes 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 silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still seen on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags that are timeless will last for years unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you can't be without a designer bag or want to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the beginning 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 famous designer handbags of all time.
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 silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.
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 is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.
Although iconic designer bags such as 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 prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.
designer handbags vintage that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is best 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 bags that have become cult favorites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and fun that attracts young fashionistas.
There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for all. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for a long time.
According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.
