The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.
To assist you in making the best decision, we’ve put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many wardrobes.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create bags needed to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now able to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and modern styles. YSL’s Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and brands Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new fashion becomes an ‘it bag’ it could take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags that are timeless will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren’t able to be without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags in history.
Other designer bags that have reached 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 Givenchy’s Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that’s also gaining popularity among young people.
Valentino’s Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from the logo 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 reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs during the last season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand’s most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.
If you prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag’s streamlined shape and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.
While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women’s clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
In addition, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud’s bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
There are many other designer handbags for sale bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.
According to the RealReal’s resale report, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
Another bag worth considering is Loewe’s Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric shapes. Described as “a masterpiece” by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.
Whether you’re looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy online designer handbag outlet backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for all.