The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together the top designers to consider. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that handbags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were able to experiment with their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. 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 success in the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time, Samsonite Pro-DLX 5 - Laptop Roller Case unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded styles. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular, Stylish TEEHON® Carbon Fibre Leather Wallet RFID Blocking such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for all. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

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 like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has twists. The strap is tied in knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with Versatile Small Gold Bag from Long And Son YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. Described as "a masterpiece" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish teehon® Carbon Fibre leather wallet rfid blocking McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.