Judith Leiber Minaudiere Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Minaudiere Evening Bag The rounded rectangular bag with a stylized design of geometric devices and tendrils on a black ground, with a gilt-toned chain, and gilt fabric...
Judith Leiber Gold Swarovski Crystal Mini Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Gold Swarovski Crystal Mini Minaudiere in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Spencer Bear Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Teddy Bear Minaudiere in very good condition.
$2,080Sale Price|20% Off
Judith Leiber White Crystal Gold Disco Ball Minaudières Evening Bag with Tassel
By Judith Leiber
Located in Miami Beach, FL
RARE Judith Leiber white crystal sphere minaudières shoulder bag in excellent vintage condition.
$2,239Sale Price|20% Off
Judith Leiber Millennium Minaudiere, Clutch and/or Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in Guaynabo, PR
This is a Judith Leiber minaudiere, clutch and/or purse. It depicts a small rectangular metal box wrapped with an ocean blue palette, green, yellow, brown and beige color paper illus...
Crystal, Metal
Judith Leiber Silver Minaudière Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Silver Minaudière Evening Bag Of elegant oval form, this minaudière is rendered in a luminous silver finish with silver-toned hardware and frame, crowned by a faux ony...
Judith Leiber Black Crystal Large Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Crystal Large Minaudiere in very good condition.
Judith Leiber Floral Châtelaine Minaudière Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship: the Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Embellished Clutch. This micro mini clutch is more than just an accessory; it's a true work o...
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Bunny Rabbit Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Bunny Rabbit Minaudiere in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Couture Crystal-Embellished Minaudière Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate your evening look with the Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Minaudiere Clutch, dazzlingly encrusted in hematite colored crystals for a striking statement.
Vintage Judith Leiber Stick Figure Floral Print Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Floral Print Minaudiere in very good condition.
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Black Floral Box Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Beautiful Judith Leiber black floral box minaudiere in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Egg Minaudiere Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Leiber's crystal minaudières, known for their whimsical and fanciful forms (like eggs, animals, and food), are considered works of art.
Vintage Judith Leiber Gold Suede and Swarovski Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Gold Suede and Swarovski Minaudiere in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Gold & Clear Swarovski Crystal Casket Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
BEAUTIFUL JUDITH LEIBER Swarovski crystal casket minaudiere in excellent vintage condition.
Rare Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Chatelaine Minaudiere Production Sample
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Rare Vintage Judith Leiber Crystal Chatelaine Minaudière in excellent condition.
Vintage Judith Leiber Top Flap Crystal Shoulder Bag Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Top Flap Crystal Shoulder Bag Minaudiere in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Pink Swarovski Crystal Minaudière Clutch Evening Bag Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in Studio City, CA
A Judith Leiber pink minaudière evening purse entirely covered with pink Swarovski crystals.
Judith Leiber Iridescent Swarovski Crystal Gold Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
SPECTACULAR Judith Leiber Iridescent Swarovski Crystal Gold Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Gold Filigree Swarovski Crystal Box Minaudiere evening bag clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Stunning Judith Leiber Vintage gold box minaudiere in very good vintage condition.
Judith Leiber Clear Swarovski Crystal Flower Top Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
TIMELESS Judith Leiber Clear Swarovski Crystal Flower Top Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch in excellent condition.
Judith Leiber Vintage Tan Silk Wood Bead Sequin Two Tier Minaudiere Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Tan Silk Wood Bead Sequin Two Tier Minaudiere Bag in good condition.
Judith Leiber JLP Black & Silver Minaudiere Clutch Double sided New with tags
By Judith Leiber
Located in Wallkill, NY
Judith Leiber Monogram Hinged Hard Shell Clutch JLP Double-sided Black and Silver crystals. 3.5 in H x 6 in W x 1 3/4 in D - 50 in. chain, New with Tags. Please be sure to check our...
Judith Lieber Black Minaudiere Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Black Minaudière Evening Bag A sophisticated rectangular minaudière by Judith Leiber, rendered in sleek black with silver-toned hardware.
Judith Leiber Crossbody Gold Tone Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate your accessory game with the sheer elegance of the Judith Leiber Crossbody Gold Tone Clutch - a timeless masterpiece of luxury and style. This adorable rectangle clutch is mo...
Judith Leiber JLP Minaudiere Clutch Double sided Black Silver New with Tag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Wallkill, NY
Judith Leiber Monogram Hinged Hard Shell Clutch JLP Double-sided Black and Silver crystals. Measuring 3.5 H x 6 W x 1 3/4 D 50 inch chain. New with Tags. Be sure to check our storef...
Judith Leiber Silver Bullfrog Miniaudiere, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
No need to kiss anymore frogs- your price charming has arrived (in bag form, that is!) Add some novelty to your evening looks with our amazing 1980s Judith Leiber silver bullfrog bag...
Judith Leiber Black Alligator Mini Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Alligator Mini Evening Bag in excellent condition. Black alligator exterior trimmed with a crystal silver top button closure. Black silk interior with one slit si...
Price Upon Request
Judith Leiber 60s Snakeskin Evening Box Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Gresham, OR
1960s Judith Leiber box bag with gold hardware and beige faille lining and matching snakeskin coin purse. Originally sold at Saks Fifth Avenue. Measures 8" x 5" x 3.5"
$760Sale Price|20% Off
Judith Leiber Crystal Encrusted Monogram evening clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber crystal encrusted monogram evening clutch or shoulder bag. This beautiful bag in monogrammed LMJ, in crystal rhinestones set against black rhinestones. The bag frame is...
1990s Judith Leiber Lizard Crossbody Bag Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Arnhem, NL
An evening shoulder bag/clutch made of lizard skin with gemstones set in gold toned hardware. The shoulder strap is 100 cm long and it can be placed inside the bag to use it as a clu...
Judith Leiber Black Silk Black Rhinestone Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Silk Black Rhinestone Evening Bag in excellent condition. Black silk exterior trimmed with sparkling black rhinestone body, silver hardware and black silk shoulde...
Judith Leiber Vintage Burgundy Snakeskin Gold Accent Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This exquisite Judith Leiber handbag showcases luxurious burgundy snakeskin with a structured, pleated design. Its gold-tone metal frame features an elegant twisted rope detail, comp...
Judith Leiber Iridescent White Evening Clutch with Chain, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Classic Judith Leiber pouch style evening bag in simulated lizard in gold tone circa 1980s. Ruffles top with rhinestone encrusted kiss lock. Detachable hidden shoulder chain. Comes w...
Judith Leiber Olive Satin Evening Bag & Clutch with Rhinestones
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Olive Satin Evening Bag & Clutch with Rhinestones. This bag is in very good condition with light wear. It has a long gold strap that can be removed. Measurements: ...
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Alligator Crystal Strap Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Alligator Crystal Strap Evening Bag in very good condition. Black alligator embossed exterior trimmed with sparkling rhinestone corded handle straps. Fron...
Vintage Judith Leiber Asian-Inspired Red Orange Crystal Floral Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Vintage Judith Leiber evening bag in bold red-orange silk, featuring Asian-inspired floral motifs with blooms accented in crystals for a refined, light-catching finish. The design fe...
Judith Leiber Black Reptile Deco Evening Convertible Evening Bag, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Expertly designed by renowned handbag designer Judith Leiber, this 80s black reptile deco evening bag exudes elegance with its unique styling. The hidden removable leather strap allo...
Judith Leiber Resting Crane Bird Diamante Gold Trinket Pill Box
By Judith Leiber
Located in Montreal, QC
Beautiful Hard to Find Gold tone Judith Leiber Trinket Box fashioned after a Japanese 'Koro' or incense holder in the form of a Resting Crane; highlighted with sparkling CZ crystals ...
JUDITH LEIBER Black Satin Evening Bag with Jet Black Rhinestones
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Judith Leiber black satin evening bag with jet black rhinestones. This evening bag is in 'LIKE NEW' condition. There are no significant flaws or wear areas to consider with this love...
Vintage Judith Leiber Red & Gold Obi Silk Convertible Clutch Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A regal creation from the legendary Judith Leiber, this vintage evening bag is crafted from exquisite Japanese obi silk—an opulent textile traditionally used in ceremonial kimonos. ...
Judith Leiber Silvertone Embroidered Lame Frame Purse with Silvertone Hardware
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This Judith Leiber purse is composed of a metallic silver-tone taupe lame. Features a silver-tone frame with rhinestone accents and an interior pocket. In excellent almost new pre-o...
Judith Leiber Black Suede Evening Bag Clutch with Silk Tassel
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Suede Evening Bag Clutch with Silk Tassel in excellent condition. Black suede exterior trimmed with gold hardware, black swarovski crystals, and a removable black...
Judith Leiber Textured Coco-Brown Silk Evening Bag with Gold hradware
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Judith Leiber wonderfully whimsical yet elegant textured coco-brown silk evening shoulder bag is accented with vermeil-finished gold hardware. The fully lined interior is pai...
Vintage Judith Leiber Python Snakeskin Nude Tan Jeweled Shoulder Bag or Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in San Diego, CA
Stunning vintage JUDITH LEIBER nude python shoulder bag or clutch and matching tasseled comb (can even be worn as a crossbody)! Signature Lieber silhouette that snaps shut to keep ev...
Judith Leiber Dark Red Satin Silk and Swarovski Crystal Evening Bag Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
GORGEOUS Judith Leiber vintage satin and swarovski crystal evening bag clutch in excellent condition. Dark red pinched textured style satin silk exterior trimmed with gold and silve...
Judith Leiber Beige Python with Tiger's Eye and Garnet Stones Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Judith Leiber's wonderfully detailed beige python evening clutch has the optional use of a evening shoulder bag with their removable straps of python and gold hardware. Th...
Judith Leiber Couture Black Satin Box Clutch with Gold Trim and Push-Lock Closur
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Couture Black Satin Box Clutch with Gold Trim and Push-Lock Closure A sleek and elegant statement piece from Judith Leiber Couture, this structured clutch is crafted...
Judith Leiber Black Minaudiere Change Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Black Minaudiere Change Purse Signed.
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Cheetah Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This is a BEAUTIFUL Judith Leiber Black Swarovski Crystal Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch in excellent condition.
Fine Judith Lieber Pearl and Crystal Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Pearl and Crystal Clutch A dazzling rectangular evening clutch by Judith Leiber, meticulously crafted with overlapping lappets of multi-colored faux pearls and crysta...
Judith Leiber Black and Silver Swarovski Crystal Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black and Silver Swarovski Crystal Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch in excellent condition.
Animal Motif Crystal Clutch In The Style Of Judith Leiber, Great Condition.
Located in Buchanan, MI
Animal Motif Crystal Clutch In The Style Of Judith Leiber Great Condition, No Crystals missing. Silver Strap Inclosed.
Judith Leiber Couture Jeweled 'Bluebell' Crimson & Blue Sunglasses with Case
By Judith Leiber
Located in Munich, DE
For more than 50 years, Judith Leiber’s evening bags, crystal minaudières and other accessories have been recognized worldwide for their attention to detail.
Judith Leiber Couture White and Black Crystal & Pearl Decor Sunglasses and Case
By Judith Leiber
Located in Munich, DE
For more than 50 years, Judith Leiber’s evening bags, crystal minaudières and other accessories have been recognized worldwide for their attention to detail.
Price Upon Request
Silver and Gray Swarovski Crystal Bunny Rabbit Minaudiere
Located in Austin, TX
Stunning JUDITH LEIBER Swarovski Crystal Bunny Rabbit Minaudiere in excellent condition, done in gray and silver swarovski crystal, with a remarkable colors.
Metal
Unavailable
Judith Leiber Duck Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Stunning and whimsical hand beaded Austrian crystal Judith Leiber duck minaudiere. Gold hardware. Comes with its original gold leather coin purse, mirror and comb.
Judith Leiber Ecru Reptile Rhinestone Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in San Francisco, CA
Crystals and reptile skin make for a truly luxurious look. This piece by Judith Leiber, who makes the most beautiful minaudieres - is ideal for wearing with anything from a simple bl...
Judith Leiber Spotted Sleeping Cat Minaudière
By Judith Leiber
Located in Annapolis, MD
Gold-tone hardware in the shape of a sleeping cat, covered in silver and black spotted Swarovski crystals with a push lock closure. Condition: Great used condition. Exterior: Padd...
Judith Leiber Faberge Egg Style Evening Bag Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Stunning and highly collectable minaudiere by the queen of the evening bag - Judith Leiber.
New JUDITH LEIBER Concha minaudiere with semi-precious clasp
By Judith Leiber
Located in Palm Beach, FL
JUDITH LEIBER silver Concha clutch bag. Ridged 1/2 oval silhouette. Semi-precious stone push top closure. 8"drop jeweled strap, can be tucked away, OR removed and worn as a 19...
Judith Leiber Crystal Minaudiere With a Black Onyx Cabochon on the Clasp
By Judith Leiber
Located in Delray Beach, FL
Offered for sale is this lovely Judith Leiber evening bag or minaudiere. It is completely covered with clear crystals and has silver hardware and 20" silver chain.
Unavailable
Judith Leiber Karung Embellished Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Roslyn, NY
Black karung. Gold-tone hardware. Snap closure at top. Single flat shoulder strap. Embellishments at top. Black canvas lining. Single interior zip pocket.
Vintage Judith Leiber Nude Snakeskin Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a vintage Judith Leiber nude beige snakeskin clutch with gold hardware and cabochon flip clasp lock. Optional gold chain. Measurements: Length 9" Height 6" Depth 3" Sho...
Judith Leiber Velvet & Crystal Evening Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Aspen, CO
Phenomenal velvet and rhinestone Judith Leiber bag. Can we worn as a clutch or shoulder bag. Strap hides inside. Leather interior with no pockets. This bag is a classic and will ...
Judith Leiber 1980s Lizard Shoulder Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Classic black mini shoulder bag in lizard by legend Judith Leiber. Semi-precious stones and Swarovski crystals bejeweled on the goldtone link that is attached to short cross body str...
Judith Leiber Purple Ombre Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Annapolis, MD
This bag features silver and tonal purple swarovski crystals, gold-tone hardware, a push lock clasp and a detachable rope chain. It comes new with tags, originally priced at $1,700.0...
Vintage Judith Leiber Mocha Lizard Multi Compartment Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a vintage rare Judith Leiber lizard handbag. Features a flap over the multi expanding compartments. Gold signature Matching lizard coin bag Countless slots Brown silk li...
Judith Leiber Brushed Suede with Gold Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This lovely evening bag from accessories guru Judith Leiber is made from suede brushed with metallic gold pigment. The bag is softly pleated and fastens with a gold infinity clasp de...
Judith Leiber Silver Multi Color Crystal Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Bala Cynwyd, PA
This Judith Leiber bag is covered in multi-colored rhinestones to make a beautiful wave pattern. This versatile evening bag will match any cocktail dress and hold all your formal eve...
Judith Leiber Buttercream Crocodile Multi Pocket Flap Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a stunning Judith Leiber buttercream crocodile flap handbag with two exterior front pockets. Gold heavy toggle chains with crystal cabochon. Two crocodile handles. Exterio...
Vintage Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch Frog Detail
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a gorgeous Judith Leiber clutch with optional chain. The handbag is composed of a striking red lizard with gather details. There are two interior slot & zipper compartments a...
1960's JUDITH LEIBER Black python evening bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Newport Beach, CA
Mint condition, 1960's JUDITH LEIBER Black python evening bag. This flawless, evening bag looks to have never been used, and is in pristine condition with absolutely no signs of w...
Rare 1960's Judith Leiber Mustard Leather Box Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Houston, TX
Measurements in inches: Strap length to bottom of bag: 11 Width: 6.5 Hight: 3 Depth: 5 This Judith Leiber box bag is fine mustard colored leather is quite a masterpiece. Featur...
Iconic Judith Leiber Alligator Bag with Jewel Encrusted Frame
By Judith Leiber
Located in Teaneck, NJ
Spectacular Judith Leiber handbag in black alligator with a jewel encrusted frame. Can be worn as a clutch or shoulder bag.
Judith Leiber Pink and Clear Rhinestone Present Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in San Francisco, CA
A present just for you! Wrapped in deep pink Swarovski crystals and tied with a silvery clear crystal bow, this little clutch is impeccable. The boxy silver interior fits a lipstick ...
JUDITH LEIBER Multi Color Faberge Egg Evening Bag Sale
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Judith Leiber multi-color Fabrege Egg evening handbag adorned by Swarovski crystals, and detachable gold tone chain shoulder strap. This item is in very good condition with minor sc...
Vintage Judith Leiber Chocolate a Brown Double Side Evening Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a rare vintage Judith Leiber chocolate brown leather double sided multi compartment evening collectible handbag. Gold hardware and feet. Too thin leather straps. The Judith...
Unavailable
H 4 in D 4 in L 9 in
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Double Side Swarovski Crystal & Sapphire Straps
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a gorgeous Judith Leiber black lizard tote. There are two main interior compartments. Double strap lizard handles with silver chain crystals & sapphires. Measures (Appro...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Lizard Skin Gold Chain Mini Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Leiber’s bags are acclaimed for their quality and high fashion status. Of her work, the New York Times refers to her creations as “objects d’art”. Done in a black lizard skin this mi...
Judith Leiber Shiney Black Alligator Evening Bag/Clutch With Gold Chain.
By Judith Leiber
Located in Delray Beach, FL
Offered for sale is this lovely Judith Leiber Baby Alligator evening bag/clutch with gold hardware and 25" chain. The chain can be put inside to carry as a clutch. This is a vi...
Unavailable
Judith Leiber Shagreen Minaudière
By Judith Leiber
Located in Teaneck, NJ
Chic black shagreen Judith Leiber clutch bag with shoulder chain. Perfect for day or evening, in pristine condition.
Judith Leiber 3pc "A Trifle from My Love" Pill Case, Compact & Business Card Holder
By Judith Leiber
Located in Lake Park, FL
This is a beautiful Judith Leiber 3 piece ensemble "A Trifle from My Love" accessories. Gold tone with crystals. One pill/medication case measures 2 1/4 x 1 5/8" Onc compact measu...
Unavailable
H 4.5 in W 3.25 in L 6 in
Judith Leiber 2way Minaudiere 23mz0717 Black Crocodile Cross Body Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Forest Hills, NY
Shoulder strap drop: 12"- 24" OVERALL VERY GOOD CONDITION ( 8/10 or AB ) Signs of Wear: Exterior: minor wear on corners Interior: dust, creases, stiff Interior Pocket: excellent H...
When it comes to handbags, no designer can compete with Judith Leiber’s ability to create magic using opulent crystals and wildly imaginative and playful shapes. The Hungarian-born designer's lauded vintage minaudières (small, decorative handbags, often without handles or a strap) were made in the form of crystal-covered swans, cupcakes, lipstick, wads of cash, teddy bears and other delightful objects.
These dazzling objets d’art have been regularly seen in the hands of First Ladies, movie stars on the red carpet and even in the prestigious collections of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And like many pathbreaking inventions in the history of design, Leiber's purses and minaudières were the result of a happy accident.
In 1967, Leiber began working on her first metal handbag. The piece in question was named the Chatelaine, and the design was a graceful drop-shaped purse in gold-tinted metal. But when the samples came in, Leiber saw that the bottom of the bag looked greenish and discolored as a result of the plating process. She had the ingenious idea of applying crystal rhinestones to the base to cover up the flaws. The fabulous bag was a huge success and would become her trademark.
Born Judith Peto in Budapest, Leiber overcame many hardships before her breakthrough. At the start of World War II, she was working at the Pessl handbag company in Budapest where she quickly climbed the ranks to become a master craftswoman. When the war escalated, she and her Jewish family were forced by the Nazis to live in a cellar of a ghetto, and several of her relatives were killed in concentration camps.
“I designed handbags in my head to get through the misery,” Leiber said.
After the liberation of Budapest, she married Gerson “Gus” Leiber, an American GI, and moved to New York. In 1948, she began working for the fashion house Nettie Rosenstein. One of Leiber's first major pieces was the handbag embroidered with glittering rhinestones and pearls carried by Mamie Eisenhower at the 1953 inaugural ball. In 1963, she finally set up her own company.
Leiber’s whimsical designs embellished with Swarovski crystals and semiprecious stones defied traditional notions of luxury handbags. She also created striking clutches and bags with leather and fine textiles from around the world. In her 65-year career, she designed over 3,500 bags, which have been worn by First Ladies including Nancy Reagan and Laura Bush, pop icons like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez and celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner (who collects Judith Leiber bags).
In 2005, the Leiber Collection Museum opened in East Hampton, New York, as a permanent space to showcase her work. The minaudières remain coveted objects that are celebrated worldwide for their eclectic beauty and glamorous charm.
The value of a good handbag cannot be overstated — find vintage Judith Leiber shoulder bags, crossbody bags, sunglasses and other fashion accessories today 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.