The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.
We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We gathered information from trusted websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Histories
As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many wardrobes.
During WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for wartime. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to play around with their personal style.
The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were created. 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 carefree libertine attitude of the era.
In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among young people.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from the logo 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 pattern is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. designer handbags for sale was seen on many runways over the past season.
Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic 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 outfit.
For those who prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.
There are numerous fashion designers that create a mark with their beautiful handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags are also a a perfect combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for all. This edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some classics that have remained coveted for a long time.
According to The RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including 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, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. Described as "a masterpiece" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.
If you're in search of a new party-ready McQueen clutch or 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 has everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.