10 No-Fuss Methods For Figuring Out Your Designer Handbags And Purses

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to think about. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable and also a useful tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of fashions.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were free to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains and chainmail. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is considered to be among the most famous designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, 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 bag, which gained fame after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will 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 technique that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

There are many fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful handbags. Designer handbags outlet brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like 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 bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like 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 cheap designer bags bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.