Chanel Black Satin Strass Camellia Clutch
By Chanel
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Chanel Black Clutch from the Spring/Summer 2010 Collection by Karl Lagerfeld.
Chanel Black Satin Strass Camellia Clutch
By Chanel
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Chanel Black Clutch from the Spring/Summer 2010 Collection by Karl Lagerfeld.
CHANEL blue satin clutch crystals and silver chain
By Chanel
Located in Rubiera, RE
CHANEL clutch in blue satin with CC logo, embellished with matching crystals, engraved silver-tone metal chain, magnetic button closure Code: 12892616 Year: 2009 Made in Italy Dime...
Chanel 90's Satin Silk Quilted Mini Gala Red Carpet Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel 90's Satin Silk Quilted Mini Gala Red Carpet Clutch Circa 1989-1991 Gold hardware Hammered vintage cc snap logo Black quilted satin silk Gold lambskin interior lining Inte...
$8,920
H 4.25 in W 8.5 in D 1 in
Chanel Taupe Beige Logo Nameplate Satin Silk Beaded Red Carpet Gala Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Taupe light beige satin clutch with beaded detail and engraved “Chanel” name plate 2004 {VINTAGE 20 Years} Antique Silver hardware Interior center pocket Split snap closure Microfib...
$26,920
H 11 in W 11 in L 0.35 in
Chanel Minaudière Clutch Rare Vintage Micro Mini Woven Chain Black Satin Satchel
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel Rare Vintage Micro Mini Woven Chain Minaudière Clutch 1994 {VINTAGE 28 Years} Gold hardware Iconic cage throughout Stitched CC logo at front 2 Interior zippered pockets Satin...
Chanel Black Satin Crystal CC Clutch Chain Evening Bag Rare Designer
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in San Jose, CA
Keyword: Chanel clutch, black satin bag, crystal CC bag, designer evening bag, luxury resale, Chanel shoulder bag, wedding clutch, cocktail purse, rare Chanel, vintage‑style Chanel, ...
Chanel nice satin evening clutch
By Chanel
Located in Paris, FR
CHANEL – Nice vintage evening clutch made of black quilted silk satin.
Chanel Vintage Timeless Satin Gold Tone Detail Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Montreal, Quebec
Very elegant, feminine and classy. This clutch is made of satin and features gold toned hardware and a silk lining.
Chanel Metal Glass Beads Black Satin Clutch Bag
By Chanel
Located in KAOHSIUNG, TW
THIS Chanel evening jeweled clutch is so beautiful and so well made.
CHANEL Black Lace and Satin Clutch Bag Purse
By Chanel
Located in Tampa, FL
This is an authentic CHANEL Black Lace and Satin Clutch Bag Purse. This elegant piece is done in a soft silver color with a black lace overlay.
Chanel Black Timeless Classic Silver CC Satin Clutch Bag
By Chanel
Located in Singapore, SG
Featuring the iconic timeless classic clutch in black satin fabric. The purse is stain free both inside and out.
Chanel Fuchsia Pink Satin Quilted Flap Envelope Clutch Bag
By Chanel
Located in Chicago, IL
Fuchsia pink evening clutch from Chanel circa 2006-2008. Smooth satin construction.
Chanel vintage black satin cc logo letter evening clutch
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Very RARE classy and sophisticated while still maintaining an edgy feel CC metal frame magnetic closure interior is lined with CC monogram microfiber interior has interior pocket C...
Unavailable
Chanel silk clutch
By Chanel
Located in Paris, FR
Chanel clutch in satin silk red / orange / terracotta color Good condition, with some light signs of wear ( scratch of the silk under the clutch ) 9cm x 13cm x 6.5cm
Chanel Lace Crystal Bow Clutch - 2009 Black White Satin CC Logo Silver Handbag
By Chanel
Located in Prahran, Victoria
Chanel - Lace Clutch with Bow & CC Crystal Logo Color: Black / off-White-Cream Material: Satin , Fabric, Lace ------------------------------------------------------------ ...
1990s Vintage Chanel Black Satin Quilted Chain Clutch with Tassel
By Chanel
Located in Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta
Beautiful vintage Chanel satin clutch with chain. Overall in very good vintage condition.
Chanel Black Satin Clutch Wristlet
By Chanel
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Black satin framed clutch is quilted in signature Chanel diamond pattern.
Chanel Black Satin Clutch Bag
By Chanel
Located in London, GB
Make a classic statement for cocktail hour with this black satin Chanel clutch featuring a pleated silhouette, ribbed detailing and a top-zip fastening offset by a logo charm and acc...
Chanel 2009 Diamante Satin Evening Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate all your evening looks with this amazing Chanel clutch bag! Circa 2009, this black satin evening clutch features the iconic CC logo surrounded by glittering crystal rhineston...
Chanel Black Satin Clutch W/ Slide Closure
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
This gorgeous clutch is the epitome of elegance. Black satin body with goldtone hardware.
Chanel Black Satin Clutch Bag, 2001
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Chanel - (Made in Italy) Black satin clutch bag with radiant topstitches topped with a golden metal eagle pattern ornamented with rhinestones.
Vintage Chanel Red Satin Quilted Diamond Tasseled Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta
Diamond shaped satin clutch in bright red. Beautiful striking color for evening occasion. Light marks on the leather area. Item series #1. Comes with its card.
Chanel Black Satin Clutch with Rhinestone Camelia Clasp, 2011
By Chanel
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Chanel Black Satin Clutch with Rhinestone Camelia Clasp-2011 This elegant and classic Chanel Black Satin Clutch has a beautiful rhinestone and silver large camelia clasp closure.
Chanel Black Satin Pochette Clutch with Gold Tone Hardware, Unisex
By Chanel
Located in Capri, IT
Chanel with compliments black satin Gold tone hardware clutch Measurements 30*20 cm
Chanel Blue Silk Satin Crystal CC Evening Clutch Handbag
By Chanel
Located in San Francisco, CA
Gorgeous CHANEL evening clutch comes in sapphire blue silk satin and features a pleated construction and a clasp lock closure with clear crystal CC logo embellishment.
Chanel Black Satin Timesless Four Leaf Clover Wristlet Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
"CHANEL Black Satin Four Leaf Clover Timeless Wristlet Clutch This CHANEL Timeless Wristlet is in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition accompanied by Chanel Dust Bag.
2004 Chanel Black Satin Four Leaf Clover Timeless Wristlet Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
CHANEL Black Satin Four Leaf Clover Timeless Wristlet Clutch Reference: HB1570 Serial Number: 8863146 Age (Circa): 2004 Accompanied By: Chanel Dust Bag Authenticity Details: Serial ...
Small glass round beads on pale pink satin base clutch Chanel ( Numbered)
By Chanel
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Small glass round beads on pale pink satin base ( Numbered)
CHANEL Vintage black satin gold frame slide lock half moon evening clutch bag
By Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHANEL Vintage black satin gold frame slide lock half moon evening clutch bag Reference: VNWG/A00004 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Material: Satin Color: Black, Gold Pattern...
Chanel Red Quilted Satin Half Moon Envelope Clutch
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The clutch features a v-shaped flap with a frontal Chanel CC medallion in silver-tone hardware.
Chanel Beige Satin Applique Frame Bag
By Chanel
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Chanel Beige Satin Applique Clutch is in excellent condition.
Chanel Black Satin Clutch
By Chanel
Located in London, GB
Make a classic statement for cocktail hour with this black satin Chanel clutch. A slim silhouette is offset with a monogrammed, camellia-shaped fastening encrusted in crystals.
Evening Chanel Satin Quilted Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Paris, FR
Gorgeous rare Chanel evening satin quilted clutch featuring a silver tone chain twisted with beige leather, (18,1in. (46cm) length) a front round mirror with CC gold tone logo and le...
2019s Chanel Black Satin Silk Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Paris, FR
2019s Chanel black silk satin clutch bag featuring a tarnish gold-tone logo claps, a back pocket, a front silk pleats effect, an inside pocket.
Chanel Lion Head Pearl Silver Satin Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Krakow, PL
This authentic Chanel Leo Lion Clutch Quilted Satin Small presented in the brand's Cruise 2010-2011 Collection inspired by Coco Chanel's sign is an elegant accessory made for a forma...
Chanel Black Quilted Satin CC Tassel Box Clutch
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Chanel Black Quilted Satin CC Tassel Box Clutch SKU: 138211 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Good Condition Comments: Item is in good condition with apparent s...
Chanel Vintage Quilted Satin Clutch Evening Bag with Rhinestones
By Chanel
Located in Rome, Rome
Vintage Chanel black quilted satin small clutch from the late 80s - early 90s.
Chanel Black Quilted Satin Half Moon Silver Interlocking CC Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Long Island City, NY
Chanel Black Quilted Satin Half Moon Silver Interlocking CC Clutch in excellent condition with no visible signs of wear.
1990 Chanel Black Quilted Satin Vintage Extra Long Classic Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
CHANEL Black Quilted Satin Vintage Extra Long Classic Clutch Reference: HB2406 Serial Number: 1613983 Age (Circa): 1990 Accompanied By: Authenticity Card Authenticity Details: Seria...
Sold
H 3.75 in W 2 in L 7.5 in
Chanel Classic Flap Mini Multi Triple Chain Around Rare Black Satin Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel Satin Mini Classic Flap Clutch Multi Triple Chain Around Rare 2004 {VINTAGE 17 Years} Brushed gold hardware CC turnlock closure Strap drop 4.5" Made in Italy
CHANEL Karl Lagerfeld silver CC logo red satin quilted half moon clutch bag
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHANEL Karl Lagerfeld silver CC logo red satin quilted half moon clutch bag Reference: TGAS/C01091 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Model: Half Moon Clutch Material: Satin...
CHANEL clutch lace bag
By Chanel
Located in Rubiera, RE
CHANEL Clutch bag Gray satin and black chantilly lace with black satin bow Code: 12280911 with card Made in Italy year 2008/2009 cm. 25 x 10 x 3.5 Excellent conditions like new
Chanel Diamond Clutch Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This Chanel Diamond Clutch Satin, crafted in black satin, features a gathered and pleated design, top frame with a diamond shaped crystal clasp, and silver-tone hardware.
Chanel Bow Clutch Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This Chanel Bow Clutch Satin, crafted in black satin, features a bow accent with a crystal-studded CC logo and gunmetal-tone hardware.
Chanel Bow Clutch Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Chanel Bow Clutch Satin is the perfect accessory for that perfect night.
Chanel Black Satin Clutch
By Chanel
Located in San Diego, CA
Complete your special occasion with the Chanel black satin clutch. The seashell-shaped evening bag features impeccable pleated black satin, a dainty bow-tied strap and gold clasp wit...
Chanel Black Satin Flap Clutch
By Chanel
Located in New York City & Hamptons, NY
A beautiful addition to any sophisticated wardrobe, this Chanel Black Satin Evening Clutch is in better than excellent condition.
Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin, crafted from black quilted satin, features an oval top frame silhouette and silver-tone hardware.
Chanel Diamond Kiss Clutch Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
Measurements: Height 6", Width 14", Depth 2" Designer: Chanel Model: Diamond Kiss Clutch Satin Item Number: 30795/02
Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin, crafted from black quilted satin, features an oval top framed silhouette and silver-tone hardware.
Chanel CC Chain Clutch Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Chanel CC Chain Clutch Satin exudes a classic yet easy style made for night outs.
Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: No Accessories Measurements: Height 6", Width 11", Depth 3" Designer: Chanel Model: Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin Exterior Material: Satin Exterior Color: Black Interior...
Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: Authenticity Card Measurements: Height 6", Width 10.5", Depth 3" Designer: Chanel Model: Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin Exterior Material: Satin Exterior Color: Black ...
Chanel Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: Dust Bag Measurements: Height 6", Width 11", Depth 3" Designer: Chanel Model: Timeless Clutch Quilted Satin Exterior Material: Satin Exterior Color: Black Interior Mater...
CHANEL QUILTED SATIN CLUTCH WITH GRIPOIX
By Chanel
Located in Chicago, IL
Chanel quilted satin clutch with gripoix and rhinestone tassel.
Chanel CC Frame Clutch Pleated Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
The authentic Chanel CC Frame Clutch Pleated Satin is the perfect piece to pair with almost any outfit.
Chanel CC Chain Clutch Stitched Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This Chanel CC Chain Clutch Stitched Satin, crafted in purple quilted satin, features a woven in leather chain-link strap, Camellia charm and silver-tone hardware.
Chanel Black Satin Evening Bag Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Malibu, CA
Chanel Black Satin Clutch is a beautiful piece in nearly pristine condition.
Chanel CC Frame Clutch Pleated Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: No Accessories Measurements: Height 6", Width 12", Depth 1" Designer: Chanel Model: CC Frame Clutch Pleated Satin Exterior Material: Satin Exterior Color: Black Interior...
Chanel CC Frame Clutch Pleated Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: Authenticity Card Measurements: Height 5", Width 13", Depth 2" Designer: Chanel Model: CC Frame Clutch Pleated Satin Exterior Material: Fabric Exterior Color: Black Inte...
Chanel Bow Flap Clutch Lace and Satin
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This Chanel Bow Flap Clutch Lace and Satin, crafted in black and pink satin, features a bow with a tiny CC logo and black fabric interior.
Chanel Camellia Diamante Convertible Clutch Satin Small
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Chanel Camellia Diamante Convertible Clutch Satin Small is an elegant clutch perfect for night outs.
Chanel Camellia Diamante Convertible Clutch Satin Small
By Chanel
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Chanel Camellia Diamante Convertible Clutch Satin Small is an elegant clutch perfect for night outs.
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...
CHRISTIAN DIOR burgundy CROCODILE LADY DIOR MEDIUM Tote Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Christian Dior Medium Lady Dior bag is crafted in glossy burgundy crocodile leather with a luxurious sheen. The structured silhouette is accented with two hard to...
CHANEL black leather 2022 22C DUBAI BEECHWOOD VANITY Shoulder Bag
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Chanel Small Vanity bag in beige beechwood with black leather trims and antique gold-tone hardware. Rare limited edition. Opens with a logo clasp closure and is lined ...
$1,238Sale Price|44% Off
Size: 40
Rare Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent YSL Lotus Heels 2004 Pumps Sz 40
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Yves Saint Laurent Heels Worn Twice. Only signs of Use is to the Sole, the Uppers are Perfect * Tom Ford Lotus Runway Ad Heels * This was his last collection for Yves Saint Laurent...
1990s Badgley Mischka Size 10 / 12 Gold Lace Sequins and Beads Vintage 90s Top
By Badgley Mischka, BADGLEY MISHCKA
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful late 1990s BADGLEY MISCHKA Couture gold lace beaded and sequined sleeveless top! Features high quality French lace. Hundreds of sequins and beads hand-sewn throughout. Hidd...
CHRISTIAN DIOR taupe FOX FUR Winter Coat Sz. F38 / M
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
Christian Dior coat in off-white, brown, and taupe fox fur with wide collar. Two side pockets. Opens with two hooks on the front. Lined in black silk. Has been worn and is in excelle...
Sold|$202,800
H 5.9 in W 7.9 in D 3.9 in
HERMÈS Birkin Sellier 20 Havane Matte Alligator with Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
HERMÈS Birkin Sellier 20 Havane Matte Alligator with Gold Hardware The Hermès Birkin Sellier 20 in Havane matte alligator is a rare expression of refined elegance and exclusivity. T...
BADGLEY MISCHKA Vintage Iridescent Lilac Beaded Evening Bag
By Badgley Mischka
Located in Leonardo, NJ
Badgley Mischka Vintage Heavily embellished with sequins, crystals, and beading Iridescent lilac purple with pinks Ornate silver hardware and unique chain Pristine Measurements in in...
$910
Size: 40 on tag but fit 38/ M
Brown double-breasted wool bouclette jacket with buckle THIERRY MUGLER
By Thierry Mugler
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Brown double-breasted wool bouclette jacket with silver metal buckle. on the left side. Main fabric composition: 90% wool, 10% nylon. Acetate lining. Shoulder pad. Cut-work. SIZE 40...
New Emilio Pucci Runway Pumps Heels Wedges Sz 37
By Emilio Pucci
Located in Conroe, TX
Brand New Emilio Pucci Gorgeous Blue Suede Wedge Heels Size: 37 Suede Adjustable Ankle Strap Pucci Painted Cork Heel Heels: 5" Platforms: 1" New With Dust Cover
Christian Dior Coral Silk Vintage Rose Petal Mini Saddle Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Christian Dior Coral Silk Vintage Rose Petal Mini Saddle Bag Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1199 Brand: Christian Dior Model: Mini Saddle Bag Type: Top Handle Serial Number: 09BM-005...
Pierre Balmain Silk Safety Pin Dress
By Pierre Balmain, Balmain
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful pale yellow silk dress from Pierre Balmain. It is semi fitted skimming the body with a crew neckline and long sleeves adorned along the outside with dozens of silver saf...
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 ...
Vintage Alexander McQueen Bat Wing Knit Top
By Alexander McQueen
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
The Vintage Alexander McQueen Bat Wing Knit Top would be an exciting addition to any wardrobe, especially for someone who enjoys pieces that combine boldness, sophistication, and art...
1980s Escada Vintage Black + White Polka Dot Striped Print Strapless Dress
By Escada Margaretha Ley, Amen Wardy
Located in Sparks, NV
Vintage 1980s black and white strapless tube dress by Margaretha Ley for Escada with a polka dot and stripe print. Fully lined with rear zip closure. The marked size is 34, and the d...
$2,159Sale Price|20% Off
New W Box Gucci Malika Large Python Clutch Bag in Bronze Pewter Spring 2011
By Gucci
Located in Conroe, TX
Gucci Brand New With Tags & Box A Rare Find New Spring 2011 Runway $3950 Bronze Metallic Pewter Full 100% Python Throughout the Bag Braided Double Straps Wrap Around and Connect ...
In the years following the opening of her modest millinery shop, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel became a pivotal designer of both fashionable casual wear and Paris haute couture as well as an icon and arbiter of 20th-century style with her bob haircut and pearls. Today vintage Chanel handbags, jackets and evening dresses are among the most sought-after clothing and accessories for fashion lovers all over the world.
The first Chanel shop was established in 1910 in Paris on rue Cambon by the young milliner Gabrielle Chanel (1883–1971), who had picked up the nickname “Coco” while working as a club singer. The boutique drew the attention of the Parisian fashion elite who popularized her wide-brimmed Chanel Modes hats. Soon she added a sportswear store in the Normandy resort town of Deauville, where Coco set the tone for her defining sense of style — traditionally masculine garments reimagined for feminine shapes, made from simple jersey fabric.
Effortless and elegant, Chanel's designs promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by complicated layers of fabric and cumbersome corsets. She followed this success with a couture house, opened in 1915 in Biarritz.
But Chanel was not born into a life of glamour. Following the death of her mother, her father left her in an orphanage where she lived until the age of 18. It was there that she learned to sew as well as appreciate the classic pairing of black and white as worn by the nuns.
In 1926, Chanel introduced her first little black dress, reclaiming a color that had once been reserved for mourning and working-class women. That same decade, she debuted her perfume, Chanel No. 5, as well as the Chanel suit with a fitted skirt, inspired by the boxy lines of men’s clothing and employing a sporty tweed.
Chanel closed her fashion operations during World War II, then returned to the industry in 1954 to design for the functional needs of modern women.
Structure and wearability endured in all of Chanel’s clothing and accessories, like the quilted leather 2.55 handbag — a 1955 update of a 1920s-era design — with its gold-chain shoulder strap that freed up a woman’s hands. The 1957 two-tone slingback pumps had a practical heel height while offering a bold statement in the black tip of the shoes. Her collarless jacket reacted against the constricting styles of Christian Dior's New Look, replacing them with a design that was timeless, an instant classic.
After Coco Chanel died in 1971, the brand underwent several changes in leadership, including fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, who took over as artistic director in 1983. His collections for Chanel displayed his knack for synthesizing old and new, high and low. Lagerfeld revived Chanel ballet flats and thoroughly embraced the classic logo's interlocking CCs, which took the form of a clasp featured on so many of the rare Chanel bags that are much sought after today.
Vintage Karl Lagerfeld designs for Chanel dresses, coats and other clothing of the 1980s, '90s and 2000s riffed on its iconography, accenting a lexicon of Chanel-isms with tastes of the moment. And as the 1990s have become associated with styles adopted by today’s supermodels and influencers, vintage Chanel bags of the 1990s are among the most prized of the brand’s offerings.
Over the years, the company has continued to innovate, such as expanding into ready-to-wear fashion in 1978 and, in 2002, establishing a subsidiary company — Paraffection — dedicated to preserving the heritage skills of fashion artisan workshops. The House of Chanel still operates its flagship on rue Cambon in Paris, where it all began.
Browse vintage Chanel bags, evening dresses, shoes, jewelry and other clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
Vintage and designer clutches are the perfect size to hold exactly what you need. While they’re typically small purses, Chanel clutches, Gucci clutches and other kinds of clutches can make a big impact on an outfit. They also have a fascinating history.
Clutches are handbags without handles that are carried by hand. One of the oldest known clutches was made in Mosul, Iraq, in the 14th century. It was made of brass and inlaid with gold and silver in geometric patterns. Although the loops on the side indicate it likely had handles to wear as a shoulder bag, manuscripts show a similar example being carried by hand.
Fashion designers often made clutches to reflect the wealth of the holder. In Medieval Europe, men and women securely carried items in small bags hidden inside their clothing as tie-on pockets. Women carried their possessions, scented and secreted, in the folds of their voluminous skirts. Pockets eventually became integral to garment design, but bigger sacks were needed to carry books and documents. When women’s clothing became lighter, consisting of fewer layers, it could no longer easily hide their handbags or pockets.
Changes in fashion led to handbags becoming a popular fashion accessory, and today, even as we’re overwhelmed by options from a variety of high-end brands, iconic luxury handbags still rule. The highly decorative bags of the 19th century faded from popularity when women entered the workforce and the clutch became the dominant business accessory. Flappers in the 1920s, clad in the dazzling Art Deco jewelry of the era, also loved the freedom of carrying clutches as they didn’t get in the way of dancing.
The simplicity of the clutch remains stylish today. Once made to be carried on special occasions, they are now an accessory for everyday use. Find a collection of vintage and designer clutches from Dior, Hermès, Louis Vuitton and more on 1stDibs.
For the brand’s 2014–15 ready-to-wear show in Paris, the designer was inspired by a most unexpected place: the supermarket.
Only Chanel could elevate humble materials like denim and wicker to icon-level status.
In the hands of Karl Lagerfeld, even running errands became a chic exercise.
From handbags and heels to jackets and jewels, Sharon Coplan Hurowitz has a deep admiration for (and collection of) all things Chanel.
How do you tell if a Chanel purse is a knockoff or the real deal? We spoke with handbag experts Alexa Ridolfi and Gerry Gallagher about how to authenticate a Chanel bag. Of course, you don’t have to worry about that on 1stDibs, where all our sellers are highly vetted.
When the name of a bag is as well-known as its brand, you know it's a classic.