The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it the value of it will increase with time.
To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many wardrobes.
In WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for the war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with 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 leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.
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 became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, 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 bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will 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 only available to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. designer handbags sale outlet uk Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and an exclusive design that makes a statement in the crowd.
There are numerous fashion designers that are known for their stunning handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Additionally other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.
According to a resale statistics report from The RealReal, the most sought-after 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 copyright 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 made of the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
Another option to think about is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with sculptural geometry. Described as "a work of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.
Many stars have been seen in bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.