It's The Next Big Thing In Designer Handbags And Purses
The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.
To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to think about. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
The History of Designer Bags
As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable and also a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles which are still found in many outfits.
In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials to make bags needed to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were allowed to explore their own fashion.
In the 60s, youth culture and hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.
Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it could take months, or even weeks, to locate one due to high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
In contrast to many fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most iconic designer handbags ever made.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with the millennials.
Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.
The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.
For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.
Designer Bag Brands
If you are an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.
While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.
Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.
Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and fun that attracts young fashionistas.
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 where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for every person. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.
According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the 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 Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.
For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.
Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.
These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags has everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.