The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.
We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which are still found in many outfits.
During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were in a position to explore their own style.
The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live without a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.
Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with the millennials.
designer handbags in sale tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead, it has released 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 rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the last season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. 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 influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.
For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.
While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature a perfect combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as 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. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
In addition, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand have an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion scene. 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 comes in a variety of sizes and colors. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.
According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 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 the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with critics and fans.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a work of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways and includes the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks 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 could be your new designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable 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 which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.