The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.
To help you make the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short History
Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.
During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were allowed to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture affected fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit during the decade and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it can take weeks, even months, to locate one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
In contrast to many trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame 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. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among young people.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with exquisite details. Its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will 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 technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted using high-quality materials and have an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.
While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and 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 bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained popularity with its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashion-conscious women.
There are a variety of designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.
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 Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.
Many stars have been seen sporting bags from other designers, including 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 brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.