17 Reasons Why You Should Be Ignoring Designer Handbags And Purses

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 maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.

During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for wartime. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were free to experiment with their own style.

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 capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it could take months, or even weeks, to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live with out a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known Designer Yellow Handbags bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after today, designer yellow handbags with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags in history.

Other designer handbags chanel bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinct design.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of modern and classic styles. The brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to a resale statistics report by The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and 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 sought-after by both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has twists. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.