10 Websites To Help You Develop Your Knowledge About Designer Handbags…

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it with care its value will increase with time.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles which are still found in many outfits.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular since women were allowed to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade and can still be seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it can take weeks, or even months to get your hands on one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed designer handbags on sale cheap bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained 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 highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent 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 shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The brand's bags also feature an ideal combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include 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 women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

In addition, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This selection includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and 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 from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. Described as "a piece of art" by its designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather components and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directional stitching.

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

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.