Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.
To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to look at. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. continue reading this.. of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.
In WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create bags needed for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were able to explore their own style.
The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. For instance, 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 new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, even months to find one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you aren't able to be without a designer bag or want to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after in the present, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among the millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Mius Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways over the last season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.
Bottega Venetas Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista and know what you want, bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.
There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags are also a a perfect combination of fashion and function and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and fun that makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand offers a variety 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 is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to the RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.
Bottega Venetas Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.
Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric design. Described as "a masterpiece" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather components and a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.
These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.
