The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.
To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.
It was in the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned 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.
In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed for war. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or designer handbags cheap wicker became popular because women were now able to explore their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to high demand, it could take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer handbags green bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide 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 in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and 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 celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.
The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.
If you prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.
There are many luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a luxury 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 a perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the market for designer handbags popular bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also developed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.
There are many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides a variety of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.
The Best designer handbags Cheap Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.
According to The RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.
For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into a knot that adds 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 bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer handbags vintage Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.
Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.
These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from fashionable shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.
