Do Not Buy Into These "Trends" About Designer Handbags And Purses
The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of 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 sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more popular as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.
It was during the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still found in many fashions.
In WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or Designer Bags wicker, gained popularity because women were able to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.
In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and became a key element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to be without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long wait lists and is considered to be among the most famous designer handbags of all time.
Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures as well as other notable 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 its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition 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 known for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.
There are many luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion brands that have made their mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. designer handbags used bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands 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 company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to The RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer handbags for ladies bags 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. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. It is described as "a piece 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 fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.
Many stars have been seen in bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.
These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.