The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will appreciate in value over time.
We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags were fashionable and a practical tool 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 both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many wardrobes.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now allowed to experiment with their own fashion.
In designer handbags in sale , the youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.
In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still found on the arm of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are often 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. They were sought-after by women who wanted their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, even months to locate one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent option for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after and has long wait lists and is believed to be one of the most iconic designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways in the past season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple 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 technique which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter who has 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 household names There are many other fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect balance of function and fashion and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags 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. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun style of bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and fun that attracts young fashionistas.
There are also many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides a variety of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for a long time.
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) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.
For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather 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 seen many of its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags by other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.