A Brief History Of Designer Handbags And Purses History Of Designer Ha…

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and care for it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

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

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious style of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and modern 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 celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't live without a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. Originally 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 on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

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 says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who are known for their stunning bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags are also a the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, onlinedesignerhandbags.uk which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and haim.kr the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

There are many other designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for everyone. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by critics and fans.

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 an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. Described as "a piece of art" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could be your next favorite designer bag.

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