The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best selection, we've compiled the top designers to consider. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that handbags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers used less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major element of the fashion industry. 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 of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

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. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to high demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, designer handbags and purses is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from its signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its fashion-forward clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

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 shape of the bag and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, designer handbags and purses 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 ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags are also a an ideal blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury 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 like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bags 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 designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as classics that have remained coveted for years to come.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.