The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren’t just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.
We’ve compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.
During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create bags required for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were in a position to explore their own fashion.
The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, Online Designer Handbags for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes an ‘It bag’, it could take weeks, or even months, to locate one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you can’t be without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy’s Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine’s luggage bag, which gained popularity after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.
Valentino’s Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu’s ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs during the last season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Leather Cross Body Handbag – Navy: Elegant Designer Bag is an ode 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 technique that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you’re an avid fashionista you’ll know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you’re a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.
There are many fashion designers that are known for their stunning handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women’s wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.
There are many other Online Designer Handbags bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The company’s designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with 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 are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.
According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 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). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and 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 brand’s signature intercciato with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as “a work of art” It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.
Whether you’re looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.