The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it the value of it will increase with time.
To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled the top designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short Histories
As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in design and function, to what we see as designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as the designers of gorgeous bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of outfits.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create the bags that were 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 became looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were allowed to explore their own fashion.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the era with bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these modern styles 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 silhouettes such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.
Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags from the past can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after and has long wait lists and is considered to be among the most famous designer handbags in history.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.
The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in the bags it offers. 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 outfit.
Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and distinctive design that is distinctive in a crowd.
There are numerous luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning styles. 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 luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that attracts young fashion-conscious women.
There are a variety of designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular among fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. designer handbags in sale includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with the public and the critics.
For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its directional quilting.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.
If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.