The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.
To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more popular as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in style and function, to what we see as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still found in many outfits.
During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now allowed to play around with their personal style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate 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 will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who can't live without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.
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 that has an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among the millennials.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from this logo style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks during the last season.
Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.
While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Additionally designer pink handbags have developed 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 brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.
There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as 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 designs, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have been coveted for years to come.
According to a resale statistics 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 the 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 sought after with both fans and critics.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.
These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.