The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.
To help you make the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Background
Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time, from pouches 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 began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits.
During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required to carry war supplies. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arms of models and celebrities 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 wanted to replicate their fashion. When a style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it can take weeks, or even months, to find one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
In contrast to many trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who can't be without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as 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 style, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from its signature style and has released other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways over the last season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft 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 technique, which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.
There are numerous luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class. The bags are also a an ideal combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer bags . Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.
Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as some staples that have remained coveted for years to come.
According to a resale data report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the 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 critics and fans.
If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a piece of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday 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 sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.