5 Common Myths About Designer Handbags And Purses You Should Avoid

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from pouches that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still seen in many wardrobes.

In WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for wartime. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were once considered not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and Designer Handbags and Purses 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 named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months to find one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who can't live without a designer handbags discounted bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of 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 ever made.

Other designer bags that have reached 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 the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from its signature style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is exclusive to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of style and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast, you will know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are numerous fashion designers that are known for their stunning handbags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with their stylish 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 modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own bags that have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags are available in a variety of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to a resale data 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 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.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato, 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 different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Puzzle bag from Loewe, that combines function with geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for late fashion designer handbags red Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars 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 boxy but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.