The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it, it will increase in value over time.
We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short Background
Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside 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 call 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 gained a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.
During WWII, purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for wartime. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were free to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture affected fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.
In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are usually named after famous people 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 replicate their style. When a style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it could take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who can't live without a designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named after 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 conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags of all time.
Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from its signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on plenty of runway styles this season.
The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.
For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.
Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion 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 for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.
There are many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and comes with various sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential addition to your closet. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This selection includes both 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 like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.
For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand with twists. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. designer handbags beige 's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.
These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.