The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.
We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside 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 of modifications in both design and function to what we recognize as designer handbags .
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.
During WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for wartime. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable as women were able to explore their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.
In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, 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. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, even months, to find one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live with out a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer bags in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with millennials.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote 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 over the past season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.
While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. Signature elements include 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 contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.
In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for all. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.
According to a resale data report from 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 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 the public and the critics.
If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. The strap is tied in knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities including 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 touch of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.