Elsa Peretti Bag
Recent Sales
1970s Italian Evening Bags and Minaudières
1970s American Evening Bags and Minaudières
Late 20th Century Japanese Evening Bags and Minaudières
1970s American Clutches
20th Century Shoulder Bags
1970s Italian Evening Bags and Minaudières
1980s Japanese Evening Bags and Minaudières
1970s Evening Bags and Minaudières
1970s American Evening Bags and Minaudières
1990s Evening Bags and Minaudières
1990s Unknown Clutches
1970s Accessories
Finding the Right Evening-bags-minaudieres for You
Vintage and designer evening bags and minaudières are elegant accessories that can elevate an ensemble and add an air of sophistication.
Evening bags began as coin purses and pouches. They were practical accessories before travel necessitated large cases and handbags eventually emerged and became a fashion statement. Evening bags grew in popularity with both men and women and, by the early 14th century, included details like embroidery and fine materials such as silk. As women began carrying hand fans, calling cards and perfumes, the evening bag became roomier while keeping its compact charm. Some designers added a thin shoulder strap. Today, the simplicity of a clutch or luxury evening bag remains as stylish as ever.
Minaudières are ornamental cases designed to hold personal items such as jewelry or cosmetics. A version of a vanity case, the minaudière was pioneered in 1933 by Charles Arpels of Van Cleef & Arpels. Made from metal, it could be engraved, decorated with precious stones or lacquered. The decade saw the popularity of these jewel-like pieces and other evening bags with Hollywood celebrities and others.
Though some of the world’s best-known luxury brands followed suit, minaudières are now made by only a small number of fashion houses such as Judith Leiber, Chanel, Versace and Hermès.
Shop an array of luxury designer evening bags and vintage minaudières in a range of designs, colors and styles to complement any outfit on 1stDibs.
Read More
Naomi Campbell Strutted down the Runway Carrying This ’90s Dior Bag
Accented with a sculptural golden handle and a pair of swishy tassels, the design never went into production.
The Hermès Kelly Is the Current Bag of Choice for Victoria Beckham and Timothée Chalamet
These celebrities prove that the famous design works with both sleek dresses and streetwear.
Early-Aughts Handbag Styles Are Back in a Big Way
Fashion designers are revisiting and reimagining the era's It bags.
The Original Birkin Bag Fetches $10 Million At Auction
The sale sets a new record for the highly coveted handbag.
This Hermès Picnic Garden Party Bag Is Elegant and Errand-Friendly
Does wicker get more high-end than this?
In a Sale of Princess Diana’s Wardrobe, a Lady Dior Bag Fetched $325,000
Several of the pieces sold for well above their estimates.
The Loewe Puzzle Bag Turns 10
On the purse’s anniversary, we reflect on its remarkable versatility.
Louis Vuitton and Murakami’s Collab Is As Fresh As Ever
The Japanese artist is one of many creators with whom the French fashion house has partnered to impressive effect.