11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Designer Handbags And Purses
The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses
Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.
We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.
Designer Bags: A Brief Histories
Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.
In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.
During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular since women were allowed to experiment with their own fashion.
In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.
In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a key part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success in the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.
Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months, to locate one due to the high demand.
Iconic Designer Bags
Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid speed. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you can't live with out an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.
One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The 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 during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.
Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.
While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has released other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways over the last season.
Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its bags. 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 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. The bag is a perfect blend of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.
Designer Bag Brands
If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.
While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. 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 offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.
Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.
In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in the year 2018, has gained popularity with 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 a variety of designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides an array of sizes and colors. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.
The Best Designer Bags
A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some classics that have remained coveted for years to come.
According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.
Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.
The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. Described as " blue designer handbags of art" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.
Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.
Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.
These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.