Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it its value will increase over time.
To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together the top designers to consider. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Handbags became more popular as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, 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 when more designers stepped into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as the designers of gorgeous 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 seen in many wardrobes.
During designer handbags sale outlet of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for wartime. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the demand, it could take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to live with out a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags of all time.
Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and 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. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influencers as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among young people.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling, the brand has moved away from this logo design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways over the past season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.
For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal balance between practicality and style.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.
While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.
Moreover other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and fun that attracts young fashionistas.
There are a variety of designer bags 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 customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of modern and classic styles. The brand comes in a variety of colors and sizes. 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 best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as classics that have remained coveted for a long time.
According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with 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 more literal twist: the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite among fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.
Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.
If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.
