The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If designer handbags sale buy a classic bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.
We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short History
As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make bags needed to carry war supplies. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were able to play around with their personal fashion.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains, and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it can take weeks, even months, to find one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
In contrast to many trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.
Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that is now well-known.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is only available to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.
While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas 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 offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides various colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to a resale data report from 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 the 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.
For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some an element of 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 Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had numerous of its items on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.
Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.
If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.