15 Gifts For The Designer Handbags And Purses Lover In Your Life
The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.
We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, bags began to evolve from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits in the present.
In WWII, purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their own style.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks to find one due to the demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Contrary to other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent option for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal 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 with an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among the millennials.
While designer handbags sale was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from the signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on a variety of runway looks during the last season.
The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic can be seen in its bags. 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 elevate any outfit.
For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.
There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.
Additionally other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.
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 allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers various sizes and colors. The company has also launched various vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The best 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 designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been sought-after for decades.
According to the RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.
For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.
The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including 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 simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due 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 could be your new designer handbag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.
If you're in search of an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.