The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.
To help you make the best decision, we've put together the top designers to think about. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Background
As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still found in many outfits.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags required for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it could take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after 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.
Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after in the present, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most famous designer handbags of all time.
Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among young people.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from this logo design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the past season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
If you prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the 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 are an avid fashionista and know what you want, bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinct design.
Although iconic designer bags 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 prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class. 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 luxury fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can 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 sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.
According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured 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 due to its directionally stitched.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could be your next favorite designer bag.
These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.