BOTTEGA VENETA brown 2009 MATTE CROCODILE BOWLING Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Bottega Veneta by Thomas Maier 2009 Fall/Winter Bowling Bag is a luxurious statement piece crafted from matte brown crocodile leather.
BOTTEGA VENETA pewter grey OLIMPIA SMALL CROCODILE Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Glimmer Olimpia Small shoulder bag in metallic pewter matte crocodile, showcasing the refined scale pattern of exotic leather enhanced by a softly lumin...
BOTTEGA VENETA red 2010 VENETA MEDIUM CROCODILE Hobo Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Veneta Medium hobo in bright red matte crocodile, showcasing the house’s iconic supple silhouette elevated by the striking texture of exotic leather.
BOTTEGA VENETA gradient blue 2016 SANT'ANDREA CROCODILE FRAME Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Sant’Andrea doctor’s bag in gradient navy to midnight blue matte crocodile, showcasing a beautifully nuanced finish that highlights the natural scale pa...
BOTTEGA VENETA gradient taupe 2016 SANT'ANDREA CROCODILE FRAME Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Sant’Andrea doctor’s bag in gradient taupe to black matte crocodile, showcasing a beautifully nuanced finish that highlights the natural scale pattern o...
BOTTEGA VENETA dusty purple 2010 VENETA MEDIUM CROCODILE Hobo Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Veneta Medium hobo in dusty purple matte crocodile, showcasing the house’s iconic supple silhouette elevated by the striking texture of exotic leather.
BOTTEGA VENETA dark brown 2017 LAUREN 1980 CROCODILE Clutch Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Lauren 1980 clutch in dark brown matte crocodile, showcasing the rich natural scale pattern of exotic leather in a softly structured silhouette inspired...
$15,199Sale Price|20% Off
UNWORN Bottega Veneta Matte Brown Crocodile XL Top Handle Bag Tote Weekender
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Switzerland, CH
One of the most luxurious pieces existing! Bottega Veneta Tote Bag from the exotic skin collection Only very few pieces were produced of this gorgeous bag Exclusively sold in flagsh...
Unavailable
Bottega Veneta Crocodile Beige Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in New York, NY
Bottega Veneta Crocodile shoulder bag Includes: Dustbag. original mirror. 6.1"L x 9.4"W x 3.5"H
Bottega Veneta Crocodile Skin Beige Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in New York, NY
Bottega Veneta Crocodile Skin shoulder bag Includes: Dustbag.
Bottega Veneta Crocodile Skin Brown Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in New York, NY
Bottega Veneta brown Crocodile Skin shoulder bag Includes: Dustbag. original mirror.
Bottega Veneta Crocodile Skin Dark Blue Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in New York, NY
Bottega Veneta dark blue Crocodile Skin shoulder bag Includes: Dustbag.
Unavailable
H 6 in W 9 in D 3 in
Bottega Veneta Olimpia Crossbody Bag Crocodile with Intrecciato Detail Small
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: Mirror, Dust Bag Measurements: Handle Drop 13", Height 6", Width 9", Depth 3", Strap Drop 24" Designer: Bottega Veneta Model: Olimpia Crossbody Bag Crocodile with Intrec...
BOTTEGA VENETA red CROCODILE GLACE FLANNEL Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
Bottega Veneta 'Cocco Glace Flannel' bag in patinated red crocodile leather.
BOTTEGA VENETA bag Cyclamen CROCODILE Sterling Silver hdwr
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Miami, FL
Divine CYCLAMEN crocodile toe bag with Sterling silver hardware!
BOTTEGA VENETA pale yellow SHINY CROCODILE Handbag Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
Bottega Veneta handbag in pale dusty yellow shiny crocodile skin.
BOTTEGA VENETA light brown CROCODILE CAMPANA MEDIUM HOBO Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta shoulder bag in light brown matte crocodile.
Bottega Veneta Bag Knot Crocodile Clutch Woven Silver Details
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Miami, FL
Guaranteed authentic Bottega Veneta iconic Knot Clutch bag in warmed honey tan with signature silver woven corners. Rare to find with the metal woven detail. Soft skin in a framed bo...
BOTTEGA VENETA blue CROCODILE PIANO CHAIN Shoulder Bag Pacific Nero
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta envelope style double sided shoulder bag in navy and midnight blue crocodile.
BOTTEGA VENETA brown matte CROCODILE CAMPANA MEDIUM Hobo Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
Bottega Veneta shoulder bag in light brown brown matte crocodile.
BOTTEGA VENETA sand beige WASH CROCODILE KNOT SMALL Clutch Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta 'Knot Small' in sand beige washed crocodile with corners in Intrecciato sterling silver.
BOTTEGA VENETA taupe leather INTRECCIATO & CROCODILE TRIM HOBO Shoulder Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta tote bag in taupe Intrecciato nappa leather with dark taupe croco trimming and shoulder straps. Lined in taupe nappa leather with one big zipper pocket ...
Sold
H 11.5 in W 16.5 in D 7 in
Bottega Veneta NEW Crocodile Exotic Leather Top Handle Satchel Kelly Style Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Charlotte, NC
Bottega Veneta NEW Crocodile Exotic Leather Top Handle Satchel Kelly Style Bag Crocodile Intrecciato Silver tone hardware Suede lining Hinge closure Made in Italy Handle drop 5.5"...
BOTTEGA VENETA dark brown CROCODILE CAMPANA MEDIUM HOBO Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta shoulder bag in espresso brown matte crocodile.
BOTTEGA VENETA Exotic Intrecciato Woven Leather & Crocodile Weekender Travel Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Switzerland, CH
A BOTTEGA VENETA signature piece that will last you for many yearsrs Huge XL size Very rare to find in this amazing color Handmade in BOTTEGA VENETA's signature intrecciato woven de...
Bottega Veneta Luxanil Bag Crocodile
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Bottega Veneta Luxanil Bag Crocodile presented in the brand's 2007 Collection exudes a luxurious, understated look with timeless appeal.
Bottega Veneta Luxanil Bag Crocodile
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Bottega Veneta Luxanil Bag Crocodile presented in the brand's 2007 Collection exudes a luxurious, understated look with timeless appeal.
Bottega Veneta Luxanil Bag Crocodile
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: Mirror, Dust Bag Measurements: Handle Drop 5.5", Height 6.5", Width 9.5", Depth 2" Designer: Bottega Veneta Model: Luxanil Bag Crocodile Exterior Material: Crocodile, Ex...
Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag constructed with rich glossy genuine crocodile is for the boldest of fashionistas.
Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile Large
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile Large is for the boldest of fashionistas, featured in Bottega Veneta's Fall 2010 Collection.
Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile Large
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile Large is for the boldest of fashionistas, featured in Bottega Veneta's Fall 2010 Collection.
Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile Large
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Bottega Veneta Tie-Dye Tiina Bag Crocodile Large is for the boldest of fashionistas featured in Bottega Veneta's Fall 2010 Collectio.
2000s Bottega Veneta Black Crocodile Leather Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Lugo (RA), IT
Lavish Bottega Veneta shoulder bag in black crocodile leather with magnetic lock and one inside zip pocket.
2000s Bottega Veneta Black Crocodile Leather Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Lugo (RA), IT
Lavish Bottega Veneta shoulder bag in black crocodile leather with magnetic lock and one inside zip pocket.
Bottega Veneta BV Angle Bag Crocodile Embossed Leather Medium
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
Minor scuffs and wear on exterior and in interior, creasing on strap, light cracking on opening wax edges, scratches on hardware. Accessories: Dust Bag Measurements: Height 6.5", Wid...
Bottega Veneta Chain Strap Shoulder Bag Leather with Crocodile Medium
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This Bottega Veneta Chain Strap Shoulder Bag Leather with Crocodile Medium, crafted in mauve leather with genuine purple crocodile skin, features dual rolled handles with woven in cr...
Bottega Veneta Compartment Chain Shoulder Bag Cocco Glace Crocodile Medium
By Bottega Veneta
Located in NY, NY
This Bottega Veneta Compartment Chain Shoulder Bag Cocco Glace Crocodile Medium, crafted in genuine gray cocco glace crocodile, features dual shoulder straps and gunmetal-tone hardwa...
Bottega Veneta Pochette Knot Brown Crocodile Clutch Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in West Hartford, CT
This is an authentic BOTTEGA VENETA Crocodile Knot Clutch in Brown. This stylish clutch is crafted of brown crocodile and a knot lock.
Rare Bottega Veneta Tangerine Crocodile Knot Clutch
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Teaneck, NJ
MAGNIFICENT!!! Pristine Tangerine crocodile Bottega Veneta Knot clutch bag...RARE!!!!
$1,974Sale Price|20% Off
Bottega Veneta Veneta Hobo Medium Burgundy 50cm Lambskin Leather
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Bottega Veneta Veneta Hobo Medium Burgundy 50cm Lambskin Leather These are professional photos of the actual bag. The season's official hottest color is here! This is the exact sam...
$3,495
H 7.9 in D 3.9 in L 9.8 in
Bottega Veneta Cinnabar Intrecciato Woven Leather Small Andiamo Tote Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in New York, NY
Bottega Veneta Cinnabar Intrecciato Woven Leather Small Andiamo Tote Bag. Strap worn singled or doubled. Made In: Italy Color: Cinnabar Materials: Nappa Leather Lining: Leather Clo...
$3,550
H 6.3 in D 1.97 in L 11.03 in
Prada 2010s Red Crocodile Leather Bauletto Bag with Gold Hardware
By Prada
Located in London, GB
Red crocodile leather exterior with natural scale texture Gold-tone hardware Double rolled top handles Zip closure at top Leather-lined interior with zip pocket Includes clochette, l...
$664Sale Price|31% Off
Miu Miu Blue Matelasse Nappa Leather Shoulder/Hand Flap Bag
By Miu Miu
Located in Sheung Wan, HK
- Mui Mui blue matelasse nappa quilted leather flap bag features a slim, adjustable leather crossbody strap. Silver hardware lock closure with keys and a leather tag with a hidden mi...
Bottega Veneta Veneta Hobo Large Burgundy 47cm Lambskin Leather
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
This Bottega Veneta Veneta Bag is an exceptional piece of luxury, crafted from iconic lambskin leather with the instantly recognizable Intrecciato weave. This bag is roomy enough for...
$1,745Sale Price|25% Off
Bottega Veneta Hobo Bag Large Grey Lambskin leather 53cm
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Bottega Veneta Hobo Bag Large Grey Lambskin leather 53cm These are professional photos of the actual bag. Experience ultimate luxury with this Bottega Veneta Hobo Bag Large crafted...
Bottega Veneta Hobo Bag Lambskin leather Dark Navy Medium 47cm
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Bottega Veneta Hobo Bag Lambskin leather Dark Navy Medium 47cm These are professional photos of the actual bag. Experience ultimate luxury with this Bottega Veneta Hobo Bag Large i...
$3,996Sale Price|20% Off
Size: OS
BOTTEGA VENETA Cognac Intrecciato Woven Antique Leather Weekender Travel Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Switzerland, CH
A BOTTEGA VENETA signature piece that will last you for many years Huge XL size Very rare to find in this amazing color BOTTEGA VENETA's signature intrecciato design This fantastic b...
Bottega Veneta Brown Leather Large Tornabuoni Intrecciato Hobo Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Paris, FR
Bottega Veneta Brown leather large “Tornabuoni Intrecciato ”Hobo bag featuring the iconic Tornabuoni Intrecciato goatskin maxi design, a top zip opening, beige suede lining with an...
Bottega Veneta Hop Large Leather and Denim Intrecciato Navy Hobo Bag 55cm
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Bottega Veneta Hop Large Leather and Denim Intrecciato Navy Hobo Bag 55cm These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. This Bottega Veneta Veneta Bag is an exc...
Nancy Gonzales Blue Crocodile Linda Tote
By Nancy Gonzalez
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Nancy Gonzales Blue Crocodile Linda Tote in good condition. Signature crocodile leather in a beautiful deep blue in classic Linda design. Double exterior front slit pockets which are...
BOTTEGA VENETA red white blue woven leather 2024 SOLSTICE Hobo Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Bottega Veneta Solstice hobo in red, white, and navy blue intrecciato-woven lambskin leather, the house's signature weave rendered in a bold tricolor graphic pattern o...
Bottega Veneta Hop Large Leather and Denim Intrecciato Navy Hobo Bag 55cm
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Bottega Veneta Hop Large Leather and Denim Intrecciato Navy Hobo Bag 55cm These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. This Bottega Veneta Veneta Bag is an exc...
Bottega Veneta Cabat Large Intreccio Leather Tote Bag Red 40cm
By Bottega Veneta
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Bottega Veneta Cabat Large Intreccio Leather Tote Bag Red 40cm These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Discover the sophisticated luxury of the Bottega Ve...
2000s Mulberry Red Crocodile Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag
By Mulberry
Located in Arnhem, NL
Mulberry shoulder bag. The bag features an embossed crocodile red leather exterior and silver-toned hardware. The exterior is in very good condition. The interior is lined with Mul...
ALEXANDER McQUEEN c.2003 Brown Leather Crocodile Embossed Buckle Box Handbag
By Alexander McQueen
Located in Thiensville, WI
ALEXANDER McQUEEN c.2003 Brown Leather Crocodile Embossed Buckle Box Handbag Brand / Manufacturer: Alexander McQueen Circa: 2003 Designer: Alexander McQueen Style: Handbag Color(s):...
John Galliano for Christian Dior Silk Lace up Top and Skirt
By Christian Dior, John Galliano
Located in Water Mill, NY
An incredible 2 piece silk skirt and top set in a pink and yellow flower print from John Galliano for Christian Dior. The top has adjustable functional pink lacing at the center fron...
John Galliano for Christian Dior Pink Silk Flower Dress
By John Galliano, Christian Dior
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful blush pink silk dress with green and bright pink flowers by John Galliano for Christian Dior. It has ruched straps forming a front V, the skirt falls in gentle folds to ...
$199Sale Price|20% Off
Size: 2
1990s Diane Von Furstenberg ' Leaf ' Print Safari Strapless Cotton Blouse
By Diane von Furstenberg
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful 90s Diane Von Furstenberg green and white cotton strapless top! 3-D leaf print, with a trapeze/free flowing waist. Buttons at top back. Can easily be dressed day to night. ...
Hermes Kelly 20 Mini Sellier Rose Scheherazade Alligator Bag Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a Limited Edition Hermes Kelly 20 Sellier bag featured in stunning Rose Scheherazade alligator. Accentuated with crisp with palladium hardware. Timeless and highly ...
Chanel Vintage S/S 1998 Silver Crystal Chiclet Straps Black 98p Gown Dress
By Chanel
Located in Jersey City, NJ
Meet this exquisite vintage Chanel dress from the iconic Spring/Summer 1998 collection, famously worn by the stunning Naomi Campbell. Crafted from luxurious black wool crepe, its sil...
Hermes crocodile '404' bag circa 1960-1963
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - 31cm black alligator '404' bag with gold-plated fastening on a ridig frame, a handle, and a key. Made in France. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Height: 25 cm ...
Alexander McQueen New Silk Top with Tulle and Lace Sleeves S/S 1999
By Alexander McQueen
Located in Water Mill, NY
An incredible grey fine silk knit top from Alexander McQueen. It is semi fitted with a crew neckline and elaborate grey net, tulle and lace layered sleeves. Unworn condition. Fits s...
$952Sale Price|20% Off
H 3.94 in D 2.95 in L 4.51 in
Vintage Bottega Veneta Mint Satin Egg Minaudière Clutch with Crystal Clasp
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Honolulu, HI
An exceptionally rare vintage 1980s Bottega Veneta evening minaudière clutch bag, exquisitely shaped like a smooth egg in a lustrous pale mint satin. Crafted in Italy, this archival...
1980's Brown Mink Lightweight Reversible Coat
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Chic 1980's unmarked Canadian brown mink reversible long coat. One side is brown leather patchwork pattern with a fur collar and cuffs. The textured pattern is created by piecing the...
$82,633
H 10.83 in W 13.78 in D 7.09 in
Hermès Birkin 35 Alligator Matte Bleu de Malte Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Berlin, BE
Hermès Birkin 35 in bleu de malte and matte alligator leather with palladium hardware. The bag is unworn but has a small scratch on one foot and a small sign on the inside bottom. Co...
Emanuel Ungaro 1980s Wrap Silk Dress
By Emanuel Ungaro
Located in Water Mill, NY
A gorgeous blue and off white elaborate abstract pattern silk damask wrap dress from Emanuel Ungaro Parallele. It has a V neckline with a wrap semi fitted hip length bodice tying at...
Hermes Kelly Depeches 38 Briefcase Electric Blue Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes coveted Kelly Depeches 38 briefcase. Very rare in Electric Blue. Epsom leather with Palladium hardware. Two large accordion compartments. Front wall ha...
$1,320Sale Price|20% Off
Size: 39.5
New Yves Saint Laurent by Stefano Pilati YSL Runway Satin Heels Pumps Sz 39.5
By Yves Saint Laurent, Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent Debut Collection Rare & Collectible Brand New * Yves Saint Laurent "POUF" Heels * Fuchsia Satin Upper * Removable Feather POUF * Leather Ins...
$1,800Sale Price|20% Off
Size: 37
New Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent YSL Lotus Heels Final Collection 2004 Sz 37
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Yves Saint Laurent Heels Brand New * Tom Ford Lotus Runway Ad Heels * This was his last collection for Yves Saint Laurent. He was inspired by the Chinese Collection of 1977... His Fi...
$490
Size: Medium - Large
Rozae Nichols Charcoal Gray Ombre Sequins A - Line Silk Trapeze Top / Blouse
By Rozae Nichols
Located in San Diego, CA
Chic Rozae Nichols charcoal gray ombre trapeze top! 100% silk, with hundreds of sequins encrusted throughout the entire blouse. Adjustable straps, so you can make shorter or longer. ...
Dolce & Gabbana Pink Green Geometric Print Lace up Sides Silk Dress 1990s
By Dolce & Gabbana
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful silk dress in a pink and green geometric print from Dolce & Gabbana. The bodice is vertically boned, fitted through to the hips and has an attached matching pink adj...
Bottega Veneta has garnered acclaim over the course of its long history for impeccable quality and unassuming elegance. Known for its signature intrecciato weave as well as the overall superb craftsmanship that characterizes its handbags, jackets, shoes and other items, the Italian luxury fashion house is revered all over the world.
Bottega Veneta was launched in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy, by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro. Its artisans worked to produce by hand what were primarily leather goods, and from the start, the label’s focus on traditional craft techniques became integral to its now-global reputation for exceptional design.
Developed by Bottega Veneta in the late 1960s, the intrecciato weaving technique gives the brand’s bags their suppleness and strength. The northeastern Italian region where the label was founded was largely associated with clothing back then, and sewing machines at the local ateliers weren’t intended to be used with the strong leather with which Bottega’s artisans were working in order to create the house’s coveted bags, wallets and other accessories.
The precise weaving technique, which sees strips of fine leather woven by hand into a durable and robust pattern, was a practical solution. The resulting style has become a Bottega Veneta signature, making products such as its iconic Intrecciato Hobo handbag instantly recognizable.
Zengiaro left Bottega Veneta during the late 1970s, and Taddei then turned the brand over to his ex-wife, Laura Moltedo, and her second husband, Vittorio Moltedo. Designs took on a bolder look and the traditional craft approach was prioritized. The brand found success in the United States and expanded rapidly throughout the 1980s, becoming popular with celebrities and the cultural elite. American artist Andy Warhol often frequented the house’s Manhattan boutique and even made a short film for the company.
As competition increased during the 1990s, Bottega Veneta’s popularity declined. The company began to see an upswing after Gucci, which is owned by luxury group Kering, acquired them in 2001. Tomas Maier was appointed creative director by Gucci’s Tom Ford and worked to return to the understated beginnings that had defined the brand’s design ethos.
Maier’s celebrated Knot clutch, which was based on a 1978-era design and debuted in 2001, was a result of his enthusiasm for pared-back design as well as his efforts to showcase the house’s legacy of meticulous craftsmanship. In 2006, Bottega opened Scuola della Pelletteria to train the next generation of leatherworking artisans.
In 2018, British designer Daniel Lee took the role of creative director and earned a number of awards and accolades for the label. Before he left in 2021, Lee introduced an array of universally lauded designs such as Bottega Veneta Tire boots, the Cassette bag and the Mini Jodie, which is named after actress Jodie Foster. Matthieu Blazy was named creative director in 2021 following a history of design work for Celine, Maison Martin Margiela, Calvin Klein and other brands.
Find vintage Bottega Veneta footwear, accessories and clothing on 1stDibs.
An integral part of fashion, handbags and purses have been indispensable accessories ever since we began to carry around personal items. Level of craftsmanship, style and shape matters — from coin purses in ancient Greece to early 20th-century opera bags and onward, handbags have evolved considerably over the years to meet our needs and desires, whether or not you happen to be prioritizing functionality over a flashy exterior.
Once, a single “It” handbag ruled each fashion season. No more. Today, lovers of vintage handbags are savvier and have a wider range of shopping options. Nevertheless, classics created by the likes of Louis Vuitton, Dior and Balenciaga still rule.
“It is not a fashion bag — it is a statement bag,” says Mightychic's Debra Kent of Hermès's widely beloved accessories. “When you carry an iconic Hermès bag — Birkin, Kelly, Constance — no one knows how long you have been into this culture or if you are a newbie. Your status is validated immediately.”
First released in 1997, Fendi's Baguette rose to fame along with Carrie Bradshaw, the Sex and the City character portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker. Recently, the design has seen such a resurgence in popularity that Fendi has reissued it.
They are part of design history, so owning a handbag has meaning. As New York–based fashion historian Sarah C. Byrd says, “You have made the choice to invest in this piece because you understand the value of it in the past and in the future to come.”
From a 1980s Chanel black leather quilted mini buckle bag to the rare Hermès Birkin 30cm Himalayan with diamond hardware to a range of 19th-century bags, find a rich variety of vintage and designer handbags and purses spanning numerous brands on 1stDibs — seasonal “It” designation no longer needed.