The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren’t just a fashionable essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.
We’ve compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short Histories
As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.
During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create bags required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were now free to explore their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL’s Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade, and is still seen today 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 were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes a ‘it bag’, it can take weeks, or even months, to locate one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion that come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you aren’t able to be without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.
One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.
Givenchy’s Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, bag with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came 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 millennials.
Valentino’s Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways in the last season.
Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand’s most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you’re a fashion enthusiast, you will know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.
There are many designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. Designer brands such as 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 clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The brand’s bags also feature an ideal balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud’s bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
There are also many other designer bag brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The company’s designer handbags women’s bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular among fashion designers.
The Best designer handbags on sale Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles, so there’s something for all. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.
According to the RealReal’s resale report, the most sought-after bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as “a work of art”, reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer handbags used Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directionally stitched.
Many stars have been seen in bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe whether you’re looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.