17 Signs To Know If You Work With Designer Handbags And Purses

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

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

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

Handbags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed for war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women were looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade, and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to be without an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways in the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide a perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. Designer brands like 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 sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance 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 name for themselves in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun style of bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer handbags discounted bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs, and the brand offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company has also launched 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 best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer handbags pink 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). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a work of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen in bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.