11 Ways To Totally Defy Your Designer Handbags And Purses
The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it will appreciate in value over time.
We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Short History
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool to carry money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in both design and function to what we know today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits in the present.
In WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl chains, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.
In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and became a key element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example 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 gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the high demand, it may take months or even weeks to get your hands one of these bags.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you don't want to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.
Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags in history.
Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item The brand has shifted away from this logo style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the past season.
Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.
Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses are more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.
While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. red designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.
In addition, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
There are also many other designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers various colors and sizes. The company also has 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 most stylish designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for every person. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.
According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and 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.
Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is the most popular.
Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favorite among fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.
Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.
If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.