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 put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Histories
Handbags became more popular 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 small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.
In WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for wartime. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person became looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now able to play around with their personal style.
The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are well-known, sales rise. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags from the past can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced 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 on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, 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 its signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs during the last season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look can be seen in its bags. 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.
For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, bags can be 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 crafted with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.
Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a high-end 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 are a perfect blend of function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.
In addition, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles and comes with an array of sizes and colors. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.
According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.
Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favorite among fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front of the fashion week runways, including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.
If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.