The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and maintain it with care, its value can increase as time passes.
We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We gathered information from trusted websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short History
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable and also a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we know as designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.
During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for wartime. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their own style.
The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. 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 in fashion and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, even months, to locate one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you don't want to live without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after in the present, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, cheap designer bags has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways in the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are made with high-quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.
There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
In addition, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
There are also many other designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in an array of sizes and colors. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some staples that have remained coveted for years to come.
According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the 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 made of the signature intercciato of the brand with twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. It is described as "a work of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.
If you're in search of a new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.