Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.
We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and 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 bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still seen in many outfits.
During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for wartime. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what a woman could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were free to explore their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and a plethora of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it could take months, or even weeks, to find one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who can't live without a designer bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. Originally 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 across her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long wait lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.
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 a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from its signature style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Mius Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.
Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. 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 minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.
There are many luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For example, a luxury 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 have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags by the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.
designer black handbag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for every person. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.
According to designer silver bag report from 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 the 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 desired by both the public and critics.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied with a knot that adds 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 design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directional stitching.
Many stars have been seen wearing bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag
