5 Laws That Anyone Working In Designer Handbags And Purses Should Know

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 take good care of it, its value can increase as time passes.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

Bags 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 evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in design and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create bags needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were allowed to play around with their personal fashion.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during 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 once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, or even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't be without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal 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 recognizable designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has released other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a more minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are numerous fashion designers that are known for their stunning handbags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and fashion. Signature elements include 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 distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and offers various colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like 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 constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise 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 front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

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

These bags will add a dash of 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 a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer handbags london backpacks.