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 purchase a classic bag, and take good care of it its value will increase with time.
To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many wardrobes.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now able to experiment with their own style.
The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. 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. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it could take weeks, even months, to find one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their 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 shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also gaining popularity among millennials.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has released other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways over the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look 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 with a gold chain strap will elevate any look.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.
While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags are also a the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini 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 clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.
There are many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential addition 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 edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as classics that have remained coveted for a long time.
According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.
If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a piece of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite among fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind 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 countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. designer handbags sale outlet could be your next designer handbag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.
If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.