The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it will increase in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we see as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that handbags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles that are still found in many fashions.

In WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were able to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

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 emulate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic designer handbags sale outlet uk Bags

Designer bags that are timeless will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted 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 highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its signature feminine but casual look can be seen 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 minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinct design.

There are numerous designer names who are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The signature elements are 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, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides a variety of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to the RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like 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.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a piece of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's 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. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer handbags in sale backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.