The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best selection, we've compiled the top designers to consider. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and Onlinedesignerhandbags What Goes Around 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 makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in style and function, to what we see as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for the war. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable as women were free to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, Onlinedesignerhandbags for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. Due to the high demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live with out a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after and has 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 design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable people, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from the signature style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorites. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and comes with various colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with sculptural geometry. Described as "a work of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable 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 all.