The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care its value will increase with time.
To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short Background
Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.
In WWII, purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now allowed to explore their own fashion.
In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A range of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were sought-after by women who wanted their style. Due to the high demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent option for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of 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 on her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after in the present, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, 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. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.
The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. designer handbags and purses is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is only available to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinct design.
There are a variety of designer names who are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in various colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.
According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 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). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.
If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.
Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch of 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 an Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.