The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.
We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We gathered information from trusted websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Background
Handbags became more popular 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 call designer handbags.
It was during the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still found in many wardrobes.
During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry on her body were relaxed. 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 personal style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are usually named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to the high demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. 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.
One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the early 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 in history.
Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought 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 young people.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from the signature design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs during the last season.
Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its supple 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 method, that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.
There are a variety of designer names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. 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 clothes and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands 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 modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.
Moreover other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary approach to bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication 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 scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes There's something for all. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of 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 stars have been seen in bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a boxy, feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.