Watch Out: How Designer Handbags And Purses Is Taking Over And How To Respond

The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and also 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 design and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of fashions.

During WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now in a position to play around with their personal fashion.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade, and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, even months, to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great option for those who cannot live without a designer bag and brands are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most iconic designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have earned 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, which came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from its signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

If you prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect blend of practicality and elegance, with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands 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 modern fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Moreover, other brands have created their own styles of designer handbags discounted bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained popularity with its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made their mark 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 are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides various colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some staples that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

For a more 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 twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favourite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its products on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the ideal way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.