1940s Clutches

1940’s black ‘Plasticflex’ clutch handbag manufactured by R. Appel, an American company, and invented by Florence Kuhlman. It is no accident that this clever design was created during World War II when manufacturers were looking for alternative materials to counteract shortages in supplies. The handbag consists of plastic tiles laced together into a flexible mesh without a frame. The result is a bag that is comfortable to carry with a super cool look. It zips across the top with a roomy fabric lined interior that is perfect for all our modern day accessories. It really is the fashion precursor to Paco Rabanne’s chain mail...

Long, strong and statement making 1940's black leather clutch handbag by American company, Prestige. The glossy black leather is perfectl...

1940s black Satin evening clutch with decorative couched embroidery in metallic gold configured in flowers, butterfly, and sun-ray motifs. T...

This 1940’s emerald green leather handbag has a fashion forward look with brass faceted stud accents that are as stylish today as in the past. ...

Cordé handbags offered unique designs starting in the 1930’s continuing through the 1950’s using gimp cord sewn to fabric often with intricate patterns and accented with lucite pieces. This black clutch was purchased by the original owner in 1945 while on her honeymoon in Memphis Tennessee. It is unusually large with a striking crescent or 'banana boat...

Stunning 1940s beaded walborg clutch. Measuring 12 inches wide x 5.75 inches high. Rich red lining. Mirror and comb are still inside the purse. Please b...

A lovely 1940s Henry Rosenfeld black satin envelope clutch purse with front heavily embroidered in traditional Indian style in turquoise and gold...

This lovely little bag was made by Custom Bags by Christine, Detroit, most likely in the 1940s. Made from a nubby black fabric, it features corded seams, ...

This charming vintage 1940s black leather clutch bag with Scotty dog icon detail is collectable and kitsch with some lovely design features. The acrylic "Scotty" charm at the centre...

Corde handbags became the rage in the 1940's with designers creating interesting visual patterns using ornamental trim, also known as gimp cord, to maximum effect. Bags by Josef was...

This charming 1940s and large for the era, crocodile skin clutch bag in deep burgundy is in superb vintage condition. The skin is soft and supple having developed a shiny patina over the years. Beautifully made and in a traditional trapezium shape featuring an adjustable wristlet and an attractive circular loop fastening at the front. The interior of the bag is divided into two compartments. The front compartment is framed with a hinge, fastened with a snap closure and lined in leather. It has a two concealed slip pockets for documentation and tickets. The rear compartment is without a closure for easy access and is lined in textured sateen. There is a further slip pocket on the exterior reverse of the bag designed for theatre programmes...

Unique black suede clutch in the surrealist mode, resembling a slim book and accented with three gold leather stripes on the binding and gold metal for the page edges, with a simple gold metal loop clasp. Fitted interior with multiple compartments for powder, etc. Unmarked, but possibly by Anne Marie...