The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women became independent and designer handbags and purses began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from bags 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, handbags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles that are still found in many fashions.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for wartime. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and is still found on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen 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 and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

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 shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, designer handbags and purses which gained popularity because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. 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 have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand provides an array of colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and 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 highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.

If you're looking for a more modern designer handbags used bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric design. Described as "a piece of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.