The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.
We've compiled a list of options to aid you in making a choice. We gathered information from trusted websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Handbags became more popular as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.
During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags required for war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were now free to explore their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, even months to find one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags from the past can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great option for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly 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 method, which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than just functional items. 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 high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.
Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. 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 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 name for themselves in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on 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 clothes for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Moreover, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with 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 bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.
According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the 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 desired by both the public and critics.
For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand with twists. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL m
