Prada handbags are carriable masterpieces and these bags always deliver a fashion statement with a touch of class. Many also think they are, and have been for many years, the best handbag around.

Prada was established in 1913 by Mario Prada in Italy. The company Fratelli Prada, Italian for Prada Brothers, started designing and creating their range of leather handbags and goods from two boutiques in Milan many years before Prada became a well known fashion brand. This soon changed however as the company evolved and captured the imagination of people in Europe and America.

After Mario, who believed against women interacting with business, passed away, his son had no interest in the company, so it was inherited by his daughter-in-law where it was maintained for nearly 20 years. In 1978 her own daughter, Miuccia Prada took over the company. Miuccia, Mario's granddaughter, at the time had a PhD in political science, although no other qualifications a top designer may expect. However, The label had been struggling financially for several years due to competition from other designers like Gucci. Miuccia did have some experience in making bags, as she made backpacks from black nylon for a few years prior to taking over.

She had previously met Patrizio Bertelli who joined her, greatly advising on decisions within the Prada company. As she went about changing the label into what it is today, she went on to release the classic Prada handbag which was made from simple black nylon, and in 1985 it became an overnight success.

Prada then followed up on this with its pret-a-porter collection - elegant, simple pieces featuring clean lines, luxurious fabrics, and simple colors. The fashion world took notice, and Prada's popularity carried on rocketing up.

Within 2 years, Miuccia won two fashion awards awards, in 1993 she received an international reward from the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and then in 1995 she also won the "Designer of the Year" Award. Since then, Prada has gone on to open boutiques in dozens of cities and countries worldwide. Miuccia is attributed to using many new fabrics and accessories on making fashion accessories in the entire Prada ranges. A typical Prada handbag is usually made of materials like deerskin, leather, calfskin and fox fur trim whereas the strap hooks, buckles and clasps are generally made of silver or gold.

Prada designer handbags come in wide range of signature colors such as champagne, camel, black, natural canvas, pewter and, of course, white, but also on occasion more vibrant brighter colors.

Nowadays, Prada handbags are incredibly practical and usually come with an assortment of extra features that help you carry your cosmetics and other things with ease. These features include inner pockets with zips (to stop things falling about), magnetic snap bag closing fasteners and key rings. Of course, lets not forget that the number one feature on the bag is always going to be the Prada logo plate, proudly displayed on the bag to let the world know that you are indeed carrying a genuine Prada designer handbag.