Do Not Buy Into These "Trends" About Designer Handbags And Purses

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We collected data from reputable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

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 money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were able to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new bag designs were created. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to high demand, it may take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who can't live without an expensive bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through 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 waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags of all time.

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 edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also gaining popularity among 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 iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs this season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

For those who prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

There are many designer names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are also many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new items that have impressed 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 like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with critics and fans.

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed 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 several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce,  designer handbags sale  and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.

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 ideal way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.