The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to think about. We sourced information 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 started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII, purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and were a major aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people 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 style. Due to the high demand, onlinedesignerhandbags it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered 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, Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and onlinedesignerhandbags tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and onlinedesignerhandbags gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinct design.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are also many other designer bags 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 bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs and offers various colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to a resale data 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 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 by both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. Described as "a piece of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.