The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If designer handbags for sale buy a classic bag, and maintain it with care the value of it will increase with time.
To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable and a practical tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
It was during the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.
During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women were looser. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were in a position to explore their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade, and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after and has long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most famous designer handbags ever made.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable people 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 The brand has shifted away from this logo style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways over the past season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple 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 shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.
There are numerous designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also designed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers various colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have remained coveted for years to come.
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. Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. Described as "a work of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front of the fashion week runways, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directional stitching.
Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.
These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.