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Finding the Right Handbags And Purses for You
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.
- What is petit point embroidery?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Petit point is similar to needlepoint, but the stitches are much smaller and the result much finer.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
The difference is in the size of the stitches:Those used in petit point are smaller than the ones in needlepoint, resulting in finer work.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023The point of the double flap on a Chanel bag is to give the handbag structure. In addition, the design offers you more privacy by concealing the contents of the bag from sight. Shop a collection of Chanel handbags from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Read More
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.
The Hermès Teddy Kelly Might Be Winter’s Most Covetable Bag
This suede-and-shearling version of the famous design debuted 20 years ago, during Jean-Paul Gaultier's tenure as creative director.
Gucci’s Anatomical Heart-Shaped Bag Is Surprisingly Romantic
Created during Alessandro Michele's tenure at the brand, this sparkling, whimsical minaudière feels just right for a night out.