The Top Designer Handbag Brands Every Woman Needs to Know

When it comes to style and fashion, we are always looking for new ways to look our best. Although it's true that these designer handbags are expensive, they are highly sought after by those of us who want to own only the best.

Designer handbags have been a staple fashion accessory for ages. Not only are handbags functional by providing a way to carry our everyday essentials, but they are also symbols that reflect one's individuality and style. Handbags are a great way to add a designer touch to any outfit.

Many of the famous bag designers have been around for generations and have played a pivotal role in elevating handbags to the status they enjoy today.

Heritage brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès have made a major impact on the fashion industry, and their timeless and classic bags are wanted by fashion enthusiasts and celebrities around the world.

Every designer has their own vision of what it takes to create the perfect bag, and every luxury handbag has a remarkable story. From the inspiration behind the specific design, to the brand's history, to the materials used to create it, each bag has its own journey that makes it unique and coveted.

The Importance of Handbags in Fashion

Bags have become one of the most important fashion accessories in recent years. An outfit complemented with a fashionable bag is taken to a whole new level.

Women cannot resist purchasing luxurious and designer handbags. When it comes to style and fashion, we are always looking for new ways to look our best. Although it's true that these designer handbags are expensive, they are highly sought after by those of us who want to own only the best.

It's no accident that major department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue have dedicated an entire floor to handbags. Top-tier retailers, designers, and manufacturers are all capitalizing on our love of designer bags as they are one of the most lucrative status symbols of the 21st century.

How Handbags Have Evolved Over Time

Despite their popularity among women, handbags began as a man's accessory. The term was first used to describe a man's briefcase in 1900, and hieroglyphics from Ancient Egypt show men wearing pouches around their waists.

The oldest handbag to be discovered is a 700-year-old clutch that was found in Mosul, a city in northern Iraq. The lovely bag is embellished with gold and silver court scenes.

Handbags have always served as symbols of power, status, and beauty, in addition to their practical functions. Embroidered depictions of love were commonly added to medieval purses.

In the 19th century, bags were revolutionized by the introduction of public train travel. As more and more people began to travel by train, the term "handbag" was coined to describe the luggage that travelers carried onboard. Some of today's most well-known designers, such as the iconic Louis Vuitton, began as 19th-century luggage makers.

Centuries later, all of our daily essentials are stored in handbags, from wallets and keys to phones and makeup. Women never leave home without their favorite designer bag.

The Most Popular Designer Handbag Brands

Designer bags are a must-have accessory for any fashion enthusiast, and there are numerous designers and brands who have made their mark on the industry. The world of handbag design is broad and diverse, varying from the iconic bag designs of Louis Vuitton and Chanel to the modern styles of Michael Kors and Kate Spade.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton is one of the world's most well-known and influential handbag designers. Louis Vuitton founded the company in Paris in 1854, offering trunks and luggage made for wealthy travelers. The Keepall, the company's first handbag, was designed in 1930. The luxury label is also known for paving the way for the ever-popular logomania trend, which is still relevant today.

Their signature monogram design, first introduced in 1896, is a key feature of Louis Vuitton handbags. Its distinctive pattern, which features interlocking LV initials and quatrefoils, became synonymous with the brand and is instantly recognizable to people all over the world.

Louis Vuitton Bags

With a wide variety of luxury bags to choose from, two styles have stood the test of time: the Neverfull and Speedy.

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull shoulder bag is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large, as well as three patterns: monogram, Damier Azure, and Damier Ebene. Its price varies depending on the size, ranging from $1200 to $1350.

The Louis Vuitton Speedy bag is one of the most popular handbags of all time. Almost every celebrity has at least one Speedy bag. It also comes in different sizes, from 25 to 40 centimeters.

The Speedy, like all Louis Vuitton bags, comes in three standard patterns. And, the Speedy Bandouliere version features a crossbody strap that is detachable.

Chanel

Chanel, another iconic brand in the world of designer handbags, was founded at the beginning of the 20th century in Paris. Coco Chanel established the brand in 1909, which quickly became known for its elegant and sophisticated designs.

Chanel Bags

Chanel's classic shoulder bag is one of the world's most recognizable handbags. This quilted leather bag is available in a variety of colors and sizes and was designed by Coco herself in 1955. The long chain strap, however, is what makes this bag truly unique. It is clear from the name that this bag is both classic and iconic, and it's mostly worn in the evening for special occasions.

The Chanel boy bag is the second most popular Chanel bag. It has a box-like shape and comes in a variety of colors. This designer bag is available in four sizes: small, medium, new medium, and large.

Hermes

Hermes is a renowned French brand that was founded in 1837 in Paris by designer Thierry Hermès. Hermes is well-known in the world of luxury for its rich heritage, exquisite craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

The Birkin Bag

Birkin bags are the epitome of luxury and status. The Birkin bag is universally perceived as the most exclusive accessory in the world, with some even claiming that it is a better investment than gold. It was named after the British singer and actress Jane Birkin.

This bag is entirely handcrafted and made of fine materials such as crocodile, cow, lizard, and ostrich. They use premium animal skins including some of the finest calf leathers in the world. The Birkin bag comes in a variety of colors from beige and black to hot pink and bright orange and is popular among celebrities.

Birkins are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 25 cm to 55 cm. The bag also has a lock and key feature on the front. The keys are kept in a leather lanyard known as a clochette, which is attached to the bag.

Gucci

The Italian luxury fashion house, Gucci was founded by Guccio Gucci in 1921 and quickly became one of the most recognizable and influential brands worldwide.

One of its most sleek shoulder bags is the Gucci Horsebit bag, which was first released in 1955. The horsebit emblem, which has now become synonymous with Gucci, is modeled after equestrian details. The handbag was re-released in 2019 under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele.

Dior

Dior is a high-fashion luxury French fashion house, which was founded by Christian Dior in 1946. The brand quickly became an international success due to its sophisticated designs.

The renowned Lady Dior bag was Princess Diana's favorite model, which she first wore in 1995. Almost 25 years later, the handbag remains one of the most coveted bags today. The bag's timelessness stems from its simplicity and minimal shape and style. The playful details of the metallic charms that fall from the strap were inspired by Christian Dior himself and add an unexpected twist to the bag.

Prada

Their leather luxury handbags have been a staple since the brand's founding in 1913, so it goes without saying that celebrities, influencers, and fashionistas all adore Prada handbags.

The Prada Cleo bag is one of the more popular designs available from the brand. This shoulder bag has claimed "it bag" status since its debut in Prada's SS21 collection, thanks to its timeless, minimalistic design. It is available in a variety of color schemes and textures, ensuring that you can find one that suits your personality perfectly.

Michael Kors

Designer Michael Kors established the American fashion house Michael Kors in 1981 in New York.

One of the brand's most well-known bags is the Selma satchel. The bag's blend of simplicity, functionality, and elegance makes it high in demand. It is available in several colors and is made of sturdy saffiano leather.

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta is a luxury Italian brand founded in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy. The brand became synonymous with luxury and elegance due to its minimalist aesthetic and high-quality materials.

One of the most popular Bottega Veneta handbags is the Cassette bag. Despite being relatively new, the Cassette Bag is quickly becoming a fashion favorite. With its distinctively soft geometric shape, the Cassette has become the new “it bag” among the fashion crowd.

The Cassette's chic design is based on the Intrecciato weave pattern that the Italian fashion house is well known for. This bag has a balanced mix of practicality and minimal elegance that will undoubtedly make it a staple piece in many women’s wardrobes for years to come.

Celine

Céline Vipiana founded the French luxury brand Celine in 1945. Celine handbags have become extremely popular in recent years, particularly Celine luggage bags. In addition to its unique shape, the luggage bag comes in five different sizes: medium, shoulder, mini, micro, and nano. Because of its beautiful colors and widespread popularity, these bags are priced at a premium.

Yves Saint Laurent

From the brand's beginnings in the 1960s, Yves Saint Laurent has developed a loyal following and is best known for its revolutionary, liberal, and androgynous pieces.

The LouLou purse is among Saint Laurent's most popular handbags. This soft but structured bag is a classic choice that will never go out of style. The LouLou bag has enough space to fit all of your necessities without being too large.

Fendi

The legendary Italian fashion business Fendi had humble beginnings but has grown into a favorite brand for understandable reasons. The Fendi Baguette is the brand's most well-known handbag. The Baguette, created by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, has a compact size and short strap that makes it comfortable for wearing over the arm.

FAQs

What is the most popular luxury bag brand?

It's hard to identify the most popular luxury designer handbag brand because it depends on so many different factors and individual preferences. Nevertheless, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès are some of the most well-known luxury handbag brands.

What are good bag brands?

There are many well-known designer handbag brands that offer high-end products with excellent craftsmanship. Some of the most well-known and respectable brands include Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Hermès, Celine, and Bottega Veneta. The best brand ultimately comes down to personal taste, requirements, and financial resources.

As you begin to curate a collection of designer bags to complement your wardrobe, don’t forget to store them with care. When not in use, we recommend storing handbags in dust bags that will protect your most valuable items from dust, light, moths, mold, and condensation. Ideally, dust bags should be made of natural textiles that are environmentally friendly and allow your favorite pieces to breathe while keeping them protected from damage.

“I have enough bags,” said no one ever. Luxury handbags from elite brands continue to dominate the fashion industry, and women (and men) can’t get enough. From household names such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, and many other high-end brands, their handbags have emerged victorious in their styles and are available in a broad spectrum of designs and colors to fit a classic or modern fashionista’s needs.

Some of the world’s most expensive purses and bags are the highlight of every occasion and event. Since there are endless handbag brands and designs to choose from, it can get difficult to pick a favorite or decide which one to invest in.

To make it easier for you to determine the appropriate bag for your sense of style, Biltmore Loan has listed 10 of the world’s best and most luxurious handbag brands and designs, including:

1. Hermès

The popularity of this megastar fashion house is evident in people’s high demands despite its hefty price tags. The Matte Crocodile Biking Bag, named after English-French actor-singer Jane Birkin, is the brand’s most expensive handbag to date, costing at least $120,000. More rare Birkins, including the Hermès Himalayan crocodile Birkin, is priced at an outstanding $432,000, which is thought to be the most expensive Birkin ever offered for sale.

The increasing demand for this iconic Hermès trademark has become a symbol of class, wealth, and status. A Birkin’s exterior is not only crafted from genuine crocodile leather, but also embellished with a diamond-studded clasp of 10-carat diamonds set on a bed made of white gold.

Related: Learn How to Sell Your Hermes Bag for Cash

2. Chanel

Chanel is a world-renowned high-end fashion brand that definitely cannot skip this list of the best and most expensive designer handbags. For decades on end, Chanel has accompanied celebrities to major award shows like the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, Grammys, movie premiers, and all significant events where fashion can be shown off.

Coco Chanel launched the brand in 1909. Today, the fashion house continues to be among the top 10 luxury brands in the world.

Related: Learn How to Sell your Chanel Bags for Cash

3. Fendi

Fendi is an Italian luxury fashion house established in 1925 and is best known for its “baguette” or B handbags. These fashion-forward arm candies are available in white lambskin, black crocodile leather, and a variety of other designs, with each bag costing around $28,000.

4. Louis Vuitton

A classic brand beloved by all, it’s quite apparent why Louis Vuitton is on this list. This French house of fashion has long been the symbol of class and elegance since its launch in 1854. On a global scale, the brand value of Louis Vuitton handbags is close to $25.9 billion.

This brand has been catering to the taste of every individual, including A-listers who often carry one of Louis Vuitton’s masterpieces at red carpet events. Among the many favorites include the Noé or the bucket bag, which retails for $1,440; the Raindrop Besace, a waterproof design that costs nearly $2,000; and the Petite Malle, which is one of Nicolas Ghesquiere’s first creations after taking over Marc Jacobs, costing $34,000. Undoubtedly, Louis Vuitton is one of the most expensive and best handbag brands in the world.

5. Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs’ massive success is partly attributed to an exclusive creation – the Carolyn Crocodile handbag made with purple crocodile skin and cost $50,000. Despite its expensive price point, customers continue to pine for the exquisite, high-quality item.

After successfully serving Louis Vuitton, American fashion designer Marc Jacobs started his own line of fashion accessories and ranked among the top fashion designers in the world. His business expands in over 200 retail stores in 80 countries across the globe.

Conversely, the Delray, a stunning and eye-catching pink leather bag with gold hardware is another famous creation from the label, costing around $2,000.

6. Mouawad

Mouawad is a privately held Swiss and Emirati luxury goods company. Its 1001 Nights Diamond Purse, which is made up of 18 karat gold and encrusted with more than 4,500 diamonds, is one of the most expensive and best designer handbags that the brand makes, costing a whopping $3.8 million. In 2010, the 1001 Nights Diamond Purse earned a place in Guinness World Records for being the most valuable handbag in the world

7. Hilde Palladino

Norwegian designer Hilde Palladino became a household name after debuting the Gadino Bag in 2001. The luxurious piece is crafted from white crocodile skin and has 39 diamonds strategically placed on the clasps that are purely made from white gold. Today,  Hilde Palladino bags are listed among the most expensive handbags in the world and are available in high-end boutiques like Bergdorf Goodman and Harvey Nichols.

8. Yves Saint Laurent

In the elite group, Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), founded in Paris in 1961, remains as an incredibly popular luxury fashion name. They are known for timeless handbag designs that spell luxury like no other. Some of their most beloved pieces include the Muse Bag, costing $18,990 and is available in two sizes; the Classic Duffle 24 retailing for $2,990; and the Monogram SL Chain Wallet sold for $1,490.

9. Valentino

A famous brand in the clothing industry, Valentino has also made its mark in the women’s handbag industry, too. The mere presence of the brand’s tag has everyone and their mothers flocking to get their hands on both its latest and most classic pieces.

Their luxury handbags come in neutrals and bold neon colors in order to cater to the likes of every fashionista. Valentino’s My Rockstud Tote, costing around $2,595, is beautifully crafted out of crocodile skin and is growing in demand by the day.

10. Prada

Started in 1913 by Mario Prada and his brother Martino as a leather goods shop, Prada is now among the well-known names in luxury brand labels. Their handbags are considered to be an elite fashion accessory, with Prada designs getting better with each passing year. At Milan Fashion Week 2018, Prada exhibited its Spring and Summer handbag collection, which were mostly embellished by glistening crystals of all different shapes and sizes.

Are you interested in selling your handbags?

As years pass, classic and modern designer handbags only rise in value and rarity. With proper care and maintenance, a luxury bag can prove its worth as an investment piece. If you are looking to sell your designer purses, Biltmore Loan offers the most competitive prices when buying or accepting collateral loans for high-end leather goods. Interested? Call us today at 480-991-5626 for Scottsdale and 480-705-5626 for Chandler. You may also complete our online form for a free market appraisal.