The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.
We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Histories
Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in style and function, to what we know as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s that handbags 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 socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.
During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags required for war. The end of the war marked an era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to experiment with their personal style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it can take months, or even weeks to find one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you aren't able to be without a designer bag or want to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after in the present, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with young people.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.
Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is only available to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.
While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive 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 founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion world. 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 has also launched various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.
According to a resale statistics report by The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and copyright bags (including online designer handbags the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics, like 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 constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite among fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had 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 yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.
Other designers like 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 is a boxy feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.