The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase as time passes.
We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Histories
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable and also a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation 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 outfits.
During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.
The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and is still found on the arms of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.
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 with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity among young people.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory 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 aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the last season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.
If you prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect blend of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that purses are more than just functional accessories. red bag designer is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.
While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like 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 example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
There are many other designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to a resale statistics report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the 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 the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.
If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato, but with a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.
Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. Described as "a work of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.
Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.