The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and take good care of it its value will increase as time passes.
To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short Histories
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of outfits.
In WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were now free to explore their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it can take weeks, or even months, to locate one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags from the past can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to be without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also gaining popularity among young people.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from its signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet 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 supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
If you prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that purses can be more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. designer handbags beige are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.
While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
There are also many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including 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 has several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular 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 a range of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.
According to The RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directional stitching.
Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.
Whether you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.