The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Designer Handbags And Purses

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase as time passes.

To help you make the best selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to look at. We gathered information from trusted websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, even months, to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who can't be without an expensive bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags in history.

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 edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead, it has released 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 version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways over the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has couture details. Its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, designer handbags and purses such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of modern and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand with a twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbags names handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine piece that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, Designer Handbags and Purses the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.