The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just 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.
We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short Background
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags were fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.
It was during the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still seen in many fashions.
During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed for war. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their personal style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms 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. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months to get your hands on one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous 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 waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with young people.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways over the past season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.
While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also offer the perfect combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands 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 contemporary brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Moreover other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for everyone. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some staples that have been sought-after for a long time.
According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.
For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
Another bag to consider is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with geometric shapes. It is described as "a work of art" by the designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant 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.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.