The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and take good care of it its value will increase with time.
We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in style and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits.
In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now in a position to play around with their personal fashion.
In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, 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 fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
In contrast to many trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great option for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.
designer handbags in sale is one of the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that is now well-known.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual style can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its supple 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 which is only available to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.
There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other 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 that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.
There are also many other designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.
According to a resale information report from 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 Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.
If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured numerous of its items on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.
Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.
If you're in search of an elegant new McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.