The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Designer Handbags And Purses

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it with care the value of it will increase as time passes.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We collected data from reputable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round 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, bags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many fashions.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains and chainmail. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited 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 silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who can't be without a designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long wait lists and is believed to be one of the most iconic designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, designer with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable people, 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 the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. 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 make any outfit look more stylish.

For those who prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide a perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

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

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini 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 clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are also many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with various sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles There's something for every person. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the 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 like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, which combines functionality with geometric design. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer handbags green bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both 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 is a slim yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.