The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.
To help you make the best decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to consider. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief History
Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in style and function, to what we recognize today as
designer handbags cheap handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions in the present.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now able to explore their own fashion.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and is still found on the arms of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted 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 get your hands on one due to high demand.
Iconic designer Bags (
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Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable designer bags ever made.
Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern 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 past season.
The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is only available to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know 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 using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.
There are many luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags are also a a perfect balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands 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 modern brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and
designer bags the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags by the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.
According to the RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote.