The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.
We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.
In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular since women were in a position to experiment with their own fashion.
The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.
In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a key part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long wait lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.
Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from the signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on many runways in the past season.
Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
If you prefer a more minimalist 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 bag is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that is distinctive in a crowd.
Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands that have made a mark with 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 innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The brand's bags have a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
There are also many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in a variety of colors and sizes. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for everyone. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.
According to affordable designer handbags uk by 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 Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.
Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.
Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.
These bags will add a touch 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' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.