10 Untrue Answers To Common Designer Handbags And Purses Questions Do You Know The Right Answers?
The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.
To assist you in making the right decision, we've put together an extensive list of designers to consider. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Background
Bags became more fashionable as women became independent and began working 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 from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in design and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still found in many fashions.
During WWII purse designs changed since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required for war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular since women were in a position to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.
Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade and is still seen on the arms of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. Due to the demand, it may take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long wait lists and is considered to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.
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 and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures and is another bag from the designer that is now well-known.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs during 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 the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.
If you prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.
There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. 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 luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.
There are many other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed 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 bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.
The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. Described as "a piece of art" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite among fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.
Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could be your new favorite designer bag.
Whether you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.