The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it the value of it will increase as time passes.
To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.
During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make the bags that were needed for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were in a position to experiment with their own fashion.
The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today 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. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it could take months, or even weeks, to find one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Unlike many other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last for decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live with out a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of 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 hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's 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 a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual style 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 minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and an exclusive design that makes a statement in the crowd.
There are many luxury fashion designers who affordable designer handbags uk create a mark with their beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands like 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 brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.
Moreover other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.
According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and copyright bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both critics and fans.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured numerous of its items on the 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 due to its directional quilting.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.
Whether you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.