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Finding the Right Shoulder-bags for You
Ever since we’ve needed an accessory to carry our personal items when we’re on the go, shoulder bags have proven indispensable. Today, vintage and designer shoulder bags are such a treasured part of fashion history that they even get their own museum exhibitions. And while lovers of luxury handbags and purses are savvier now and have a wider range of shopping options, classics created by brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior and Balenciaga still rule.
Prior to bags becoming an essential piece of any ensemble for any gender, women wore pockets strung on ribbons as garments that were separate from their gowns, accessible by openings in the fabric. Small handbags and handheld purses were developed before the accessory gained importance as functional and fashionable. Most had more in common with wallets than anything else.
While the bags of the 16th century warranted ornament, such as exteriors embroidered with silver-gilt thread and beads, it wasn’t until the late 18th century and early 19th century that the design and craft of bags had really broadened. Handheld purses were finished with details that were meant to garner attention, and bags were fitted with shoulder straps. A stylish shoulder bag meant that women could tote jewelry, cash and perhaps a decorative snuff box full of tobacco to an evening ball across town.
The early 1900s saw the introduction of gold and silver minaudières. The patenting of these compact bejeweled clutches has been attributed to revered French jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels, and today they remain a fashion favorite. One of Judith Leiber’s innovative minaudières even earned a role in the movie Sex and the City.
A luxury shoulder bag is a work of art with a long, fascinating origin story, and entire brands and fashion lines have emerged around creating the perfect versions of shoulder bags and top-handle bags. For example, the iconic Hermès Kelly bag, which was popularized by actress Grace Kelly, is a widely coveted, collected and often faked entry from the handbag hall of fame. And while vintage Gucci tote bags have their own dedicated fan base, collectors are likely familiar with the Dionysus, a pared-down Gucci shoulder bag that manages to make a substantial statement anyway.
Embrace a classic look with a vintage shoulder bag designed by Chanel, Givenchy or Fendi — find yours on 1stDibs today.
- What is a patent bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A patent bag is a bag that is made from patent leather material. Patent leather is a form of coated leather that features a shiny high-gloss finish. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage patent bags.
- What is a Noé bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A Noé bag is a bucket handbag made by Louis Vuitton. Gaston-Louis Vuitton designed the bag in 1932 to carry champagne bottles, but it quickly caught on as a handbag. In 2017, the luxury fashion house unveiled a redesign of the bag called the Neo Noé. Find a collection of Louis Vuitton Noé bags on 1stDibs.
- What is a pochette bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A pochette bag is a small and slender shoulder purse. The word ‘pochette’ translates from French quite literally to a pouch or an envelope. It can be used as a clutch, wristlet or shoulder bag. On 1stDibs, find a variety of vintage and antique pochette bags.
- What is a minaudière bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021Generally considered to be jewelry and intended to substitute for an evening bag, a minaudière is a convenient fashion accessory. This case or decorative handbag, which is typically oblong and metal-plated, features compartments for makeup and other personal items. Shop a collection of vintage and designer minaudières from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- What is a J’Adior bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A J’Adior bag is a handbag made by the French luxury fashion house of Christian Dior. The bags feature the words "J’Adior" in gold hardware on their fronts and usually have a removable crossbody chain strap. Find a variety of Christian Dior J’Adior bags on 1stDibs.
- What is a green bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021A green bag is a sustainable bag that is eco-friendly. The green bags are reusable ones. Organic fabrics such as hemp, flax, recycled cotton and even palm, banana and pineapple leaves, bamboos are used for the bags. Visit 1stDibs to explore a wide range of designer branded bags.
- What is an Evelyne bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 4, 2024An Evelyne bag is a handbag created by the legendary French luxury house Hermès. It is a crossbody bag with a belt closure. It debuted in 1978 and gets its name from its designer, Evelyne Bertrand. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Hermès Evelyne bags.
- What is a Trapeze bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A Trapeze bag refers to an iconic handbag designed by Celine. Now renowned for chic womenswear as well as luxury leather handbags that are often recognized for their legendary gold-tone fastening and hardware, French fashion house Celine got its start in children’s shoes. The Trapeze bag is both an exquisite fashion accessory and a functional storage solution. It features a combination of the brand’s trademark luggage-style wings and a box flap. Shop a collection of Trapeze bags from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- What is a Deauville bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A Deauville bag is a style of handbag produced by the French luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton. Although designed to function as a toilet bag, the boxy satchel also works as a handbag. Most often, the bag comes in Louis Vuitton's signature monogram canvas. You'll find a collection of Louis Vuitton bags on 1stDibs.
- What is a flower bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021A flower bag is a narrow-tall nylon or plastic bag used for planting flowers, which has hanging straps at the top side with cut openings in which you can plant the flowers. Find a range of flower bags on 1stDibs to choose from.
- What is a Bolide bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023A Bolide bag is a satchel handbag produced by French luxury house Hermès. It has a curved top, a tapered body and two attached handles plus a removable shoulder strap. When it debuted in 1923, the Bolide was the first bag ever to have a zip closure. Find an assortment of Hermès Bolide bags on 1stDibs.
- What is an HAC bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023An HAC bag is a handbag made by Hermès. The first top-handled bag ever produced by Hermès was the Haut à courroies, which made its debut in 1892. A tall bag secured with a folded leather flap (fastened with bridle-inspired straps), it was designed to transport riding boots and a harness. As the world made the switch from horse to automobile, the bag adapted, becoming a multifunctional travel satchel instead of a designated saddlebag. Today, 120 years later, the HAC remains in Hermès’s line — and its distinctive flap and clasping straps have laid the groundwork for some of the house’s other iconic bags. Shop a collection of Hermès bags on 1stDibs.
- What are micro bags?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023A micro bag is a very small handbag. Unlike a clutch that you carry in your hand, a micro bag usually has handles or a strap that you can slip over your wrist or fingers. The bags are useful for carrying cosmetics, keys and cards, but are not large enough to accommodate most phones. Find a variety of handbags on 1stDibs.
- How do I store all my bags?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023To store all your bags, first stuff each one with white cotton towels or acid-free tissue paper to help it hold its shape. Then, slip the bags into their original dust bags bottoms first. Finally, arrange your covered bags upright on a shelf in a cool, dry place that doesn't receive direct sunlight. Consult the care and storage instructions included with your bags for more advice. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of handbags from some of the world's top boutiques.
- Are leather bags worth it?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Yes, leather bags are worth it, according to many experts. Overall, leather is attractive and can hold up to the effects of daily use. As a result, it is one of the most commonly used and beloved materials for handbags. The highest quality available, full-grain leather, can last for decades when properly cared for and stored. Therefore, you can maximize your return on your investment and use the same bag for years to come. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of leather bags.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, not all Balenciaga bags come with a mirror, but the majority do. The mirror is typically attached to the handle and stored inside the external pocket. The mirror should already be attached and not separately wrapped. Shop a collection of authentic Balenciaga purses from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, not all Fendi bags have a hologram square with the serial number. This technology was introduced in 2004 but was retired by 2011 in favor of more sophisticated technology after counterfeiters were able to copy it. It’s important to purchase from a vetted seller or vendor to ensure authenticity. While Fendi has at times inspired knockoffs, 1stDibs partners with only top-vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee.
- Do Chanel bags have names?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023Yes, Chanel bags have names. The brand's iconic flap bag is known as the Chanel 2.55, and the redesign of this bag created by Karl Lagerfeld is the Chanel Classic or Chanel 11.12. Names of other Chanel bags include the Boy, the Gabrielle, the Wallet on Chain and the Grand Shopping Tote or GST. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Chanel bags.
- Do Dior bags have Velcro?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Whether Dior bags have Velcro depends on the design. When it debuted in 1999, the original Dior Saddle bag had a Velcro tab securing its flap. For the re-release in 2018, Dior replaced this closure with a magnetic snap. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Dior bags.
- Can I customize a Goyard bag?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, you can indeed customize a Goyard. Whether you’ve owned the bag for some time or have just received it, Goyard offers a variety of choices for personalization and customization. Shop a collection of Goyard bags from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
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