The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Designer Handbags And Purses

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

To help you make the best selection, we've compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

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

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create bags required for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now allowed to experiment with their own fashion.

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 tapped into the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success 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're popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around 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, Designer Handbags and Purses who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags of all time.

Other designer bags that have earned 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 silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since moved away from its 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 style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous handbag designers model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favorites. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand have a unique mix of sophistication and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

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) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & 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, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill 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 numerous of its items 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 but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.