Prada Silver Lizard Micro Cahier Bag
By Prada
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Prada Silver Lizard Micro Cahier Bag is in pristine condition. Stunning exotic in mixed metallics; silver lizard skin with gold hardware. Long gold tone chain strap....
Prada Black Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag with Gold hardware
By Prada
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Prada Black Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag is in pristine condition. Black crocodile with gold hardware. Long gold tone chain strap. Dust bag included. Runway PBF 13770
Prada Pink Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag with Gold Hardware
By Prada
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Prada Pink Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag is in pristine condition. Bright pink crocodile with gold hardware. Long gold tone chain strap. Dust bag included. PBF 13769
Prada Black Cahier Shoulder Bag W/ Gold Hardware
By Prada
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Prada Black Cahier Shoulder Bag W/ Gold Hardware This fantastic bag is in excellent condition.
Prada Cahier Leather Bag
By Prada
Located in Krakow, PL
Inspired by the allure of precious and ancient volumes, the Prada Cahier bag is part of Prada's iconic lines and is presented here in a sophisticated monochrome version with a new co...
Prada Black Cahier Bag Crossbody
By Prada
Located in Roosendaal, NL
From the collection of SAVINETI we offer this Prada Black Cahier: - Brand: Prada - Model: Cahier - Color: Black - Condition: Good Condition (slight wear off on the gold h...
PRADA Cahier black saffiano leather silver logo baroque shoulder box bag
By Prada
Located in Hong Kong, NT
PRADA Cahier black saffiano leather silver logo baroque shoulder box bag Reference: TGAS/D00971 Brand: Prada Designer: Miuccia Prada Model: Cahier Material: Leather, Metal Color: Bla...
Prada Silver Lizard Micro Cahier Bag
By Prada
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Prada Silver Lizard Micro Cahier Bag is in pristine condition. Stunning exotic in mixed metallics; silver lizard skin with gold hardware. Long gold tone chain strap....
Prada Cahier Crossbody Bag in Blue
By Prada
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Prada Cahier Crossbody Bag in Blue. Additional information: Material: Calfskin leather Gold-tone Hardware Color: Blue Country: Italy Dimension: 8" W x 6" H x 3" D Condition: Good co...
Prada White and Black Leather Cahier Bag
By Prada
Located in Torre Del Greco, IT
Prada model bag made of black and white leather with golden details. Excellent condition.
Prada Black Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag with Gold hardware
By Prada
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Prada Black Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag is in pristine condition. Black crocodile with gold hardware. Long gold tone chain strap. Dust bag included. PBF 13770
Prada Pink Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag with Gold Hardware
By Prada
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Prada Pink Crocodile Micro Cahier Bag is in pristine condition. Bright pink crocodile with gold hardware. Long gold tone chain strap. Dust bag included. PBF 13769
Sold
H 5.52 in W 7.88 in
new PRADA Cahier Pop green blue Tromp Loeil velvet flap crossbody shoulder bag
By Prada
Located in Hong Kong, NT
new PRADA Cahier Pop green blue Tromp Loeil velvet flap crossbody shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/B00693 Brand: Prada Designer: Miuccia Prada Model: Cahier Bag Collection: Fall Win...
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H 5.52 in W 7.88 in D 3.15 in
new PRADA Cahier Pop Tromp Loeil green black red velvet crossbody shoulder bag
By Prada
Located in Hong Kong, NT
new PRADA Cahier Pop Tromp Loeil green black red velvet crossbody shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/B00688 Brand: Prada Designer: Miuccia Prada Model: Cahier Bag Collection: Fall Win...
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H 5.52 in W 7.88 in D 3.15 in
new PRADA Cahier Pop Tromp Loeil print pink velvet flap crossbody shoulder bag
By Prada
Located in Hong Kong, NT
new PRADA Cahier Pop Tromp Loeil print pink velvet flap crossbody shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/B00701 Brand: Prada Designer: Miuccia Prada Model: Cahier Bag Collection: Fall Win...
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H 5.52 in W 7.88 in D 3.15 in
new PRADA Cahier Pop Tromp Loeil red pink velvet print crossbody shoulder bag
By Prada
Located in Hong Kong, NT
new PRADA Cahier Pop Tromp Loeil red pink velvet print crossbody shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/B00700 Brand: Prada Designer: Miuccia Prada Model: Cahier Bag Collection: Fall Winte...
Prada Cahier Shoulder Bag Velvet Small
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Shoulder Bag Velvet Small, crafted in purple and burgundy velvet, features shoulder strap and gold-tone hardware.
Prada Cahier Shoulder Bag Velvet Small
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Shoulder Bag Velvet Small, crafted in green velvet, features chain link strap with shoulder pad, frontal flap and gold-tone hardware.
Prada Cahier Shoulder Bag Velvet Small
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Shoulder Bag Velvet Small, crafted in black velvet, features shoulder strap and gold-tone hardware.
Sold
H 5.71 in W 3.35 in L 7.88 in
Prada Beige City Calf and Saffiano Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
The Prada Cahier shoulder bag is an exquisite accessory, crafted from Saffiano and calf leather.
Prada Black Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Prada Cahier bag is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with leather.
Prada Black Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted using black leather and gold-tone hardware. The flap closure with the brand l...
Prada Black/White Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Prada Cahier bag is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with leather.
Prada Yellow/Black Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black and yellow leather.
Prada Black Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black leather.
Prada Black Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted using black leather and silver-tone hardware. The strap closure with the bran...
Prada White/Black Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted using black and white leather and gold-tone hardware. The strap closure with ...
Prada White/Black Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted using black and white leather and gold-tone hardware. The strap closure with ...
Prada Beige Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Make this uniquely designed Prada shoulder bag your own right away! It is a highly structured piece complete with silver-tone details, a leather exterior, and a luxurious well-sized ...
Prada Black Diagramme Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
For a look that is complete with style, taste, and a touch of luxe, this designer bag is the perfect addition. Flaunt this beauty on your shoulder and revel in the taste of luxury it...
Prada Black/Brown Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
For a look that is complete with style, taste, and a touch of luxe, this designer bag is the perfect addition. Flaunt this beauty on your shoulder and revel in the taste of luxury it...
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium, crafted from pink calf leather, features a flat leather strap, metal hardware trim, and aged silver-tone hardware.
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium, crafted from black city calf leather, features a flat leather strap, metal hardware trim, and silver-tone hardware.
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium, crafted from white calf leather, features a flat leather strap, metal hardware trim, and matte silver-tone hardware.
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium, crafted from black calf leather, features a flat leather handle strap, metal hardware trims, front flap, and aged silver-...
Prada Animalier Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag Velvet Small
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Prada Animalier Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag Velvet Small is a luxurious and eye-catching bag that is ideal for your day or night out.
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium is a sophisticated bag perfect for on the go moments.
Prada Black Leather Laser Cut Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Prada Cahier bag is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with leather exhibiting laser cuts.
Prada Black Saffiano Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times the Cahier by Prada is a best seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black leather.
Prada Black Velvet And Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted using velvet, leather, and gold-tone hardware.
Prada Black Velvet and Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black velvet and leather.
Prada Red/Black Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black and red leather.
Prada Black/White Saffiano Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted in Italy with black & white leather.
Prada Fuchsia/Black Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
This gorgeous bag by Prada imparts a regal appeal and has a structured silhouette. Crafted from leather in a combination of fuschia and black hues, it exudes impeccable Italian craft...
Prada Blue/Black Leather Cahier Studded Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
For a look that is complete with style, taste, and a touch of luxe, this designer bag is the perfect addition. Flaunt this beauty on your shoulder and revel in the taste of luxury it...
Prada Animalier Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag Velvet Small
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This authentic Prada Animalier Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag Velvet Small is a luxurious and eye-catching bag that is ideal for your day or night out.
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: With Strap Measurements: Handle Drop 8", Height 7", Width 10.5", Depth 4.5", Strap Drop 21-22" Designer: Prada Model: Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf Medium E...
Prada Multicolor Velvet Trompe L'oeil Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with velvet.
Prada Two Tone Blue Saffiano Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with leather.
Prada Two Tone Blue Saffiano Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with leather.
Prada Blue/Black Saffiano Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times the Cahier by Prada is a best seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black/blue leather.
Prada Black/Grey Saffiano Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black and grey leather.
Prada Green/Black Saffiano Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with black and green leather.
Prada Green/Black Velvet and Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with green velvet and black leather.
Prada Red/Black Leather Crystal Embellished Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Thoughtful details, high quality, and everyday convenience mark this designer bag for women by Prada. The bag is sewn with skill to deliver a refined look and an impeccable finish. ...
Prada Teal Blue/Black Velvet and Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Prada Cahier bag is a best-seller. This shoulder bag is crafted in Italy with velvet and leather.
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf and Saffiano Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
Accessories: With Strap Measurements: Handle Drop 7.5", Height 8", Width 10", Depth 4.5", Strap Drop 17" Designer: Prada Model: Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf and Saffian...
Prada Black/Metallic Saffiano Lux and Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted in Italy with black and metallic-hued leather. It features a silver-tone loop...
Prada Off White Laser Cut Leather Cahier Flap Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
This gorgeous bag by Prada imparts a regal appeal and has a structured silhouette. Crafted from leather in an off-white hue, it exudes Italian craftsmanship. The creation is adorned ...
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf and Saffiano Leather Mediem
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf and Saffiano Leather Medium, crafted from black city calf and saffiano leather, features a flat leather strap, metal hardware tri...
Sold
H 8.5 in W 10 in D 3.5 in
Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf and Saffiano Leather Medium
By Prada
Located in NY, NY
This Prada Cahier Convertible Shoulder Bag City Calf and Saffiano Leather Medium, crafted from black and red city calf and saffiano leather, features a flat leather strap, metal hard...
Sold
H 4.73 in W 1.97 in L 7.09 in
Prada Black/Metallic Saffiano Lux and Patent Leather Cahier Shoulder Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Inspired by valuable books from ancient times, the Cahier by Prada is a best-seller. This bag is crafted in Italy with black and metallic-hued leather and patent leather. It features...
Prada Silver Leather Cahier Chain Bag
By Prada
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Designer bags are ideal companions for ample occasions Here we have a fashion meets functionality piece crafted with precision. It has been equipped with a well sized interior that c...
LOUIS VUITTON x MURAKAMI white Monogram Multicolore 2025 SPEEDY 25 Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton x Takeshi Murakami Speedy Bandoulière 25 is crafted in white Monogram Multicolore canvas with natural cowhide leather trims. Accented with gold-tone...
Missoni Colorful Silk Halter Dress
By Missoni
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous colorful fine silk knit halter dress from Missoni in a red, orange, blue, yellow, white, lavender and black abstract pattern. It slips on over the head and has 2 black str...
Prada Straw Snake Leather Bag
By Prada
Located in Bressanone, Trentino-Alto Adige
Prada shoulder bag in green straw and snake leather, pink leather interior and silver hardware. Condition: Really good. Packing/accessories: Dustbag, authenticity card. Measuremen...
Rare Hermès Vintage Black Leather Sac 404 Top Handle Doctor's Bag
By Hermès
Located in Studio City, CA
Vintage Hermes Sac 404 in black box calf leather with top handle and gold-plated metal hardware including a push-lock closure and key attached to the handle and protected by a leathe...
John Galliano for Christian Dior Silk Lace up Top and Skirt
By John Galliano, Christian Dior
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...
Vicky Tiel 1980s Silk Strapless High Low Bustier Dress
By Vicky Tiel
Located in Water Mill, NY
A great pink silk high low dress from Vicky Tiel. It has a drop waist horizontally ruched boned bustier bodice onto which is gathered a full skirt knee length in the front, ankle len...
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 ...
1996Jean Paul Gaultier Velvet Gown with Large Fabric Beads
By Jean Paul Gaultier
Located in Austin, TX
1996 Jean Paul Gaultier maroon velvet evening gown with long straps and extra large fabric covered beads - 6 1/2" L x 1 1/4" W. 29" bust, 32" waist, 32.5" hips, 59" length. Co...
Sold|$4,209
H 5.52 in W 7.49 in D 1.19 in
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...
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 ...
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 ...
$57,066
H 9.85 in W 13.78 in D 5.12 in
Hermès 2011 Barenia Leather Wicker Kelly 35cm Picnic Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Barenia Leather & Wicker Kelly 35cm Picnic Product Details Xupes Ref: JJLG068 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 35cm Type: Top Handle Serial Number: [O] Age: 2011 Accompanied By: He...
Iconic extremely rare Tom Ford for Gucci Damask « Dragon » purse FW 2004
By Gucci, Tom Ford for Gucci
Located in NICE, FR
Timeless in Nice.vintage.darling: The iconic «Dragon» handbags in alligator skin and the incredibly beautiful velvet with gold dusting from the era of Tom Ford at Gucci. Fall Winter...
Versace Silk Cut out Back Dress
By Versace
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful pink silk dress from Versace. It is is a simple sleeveless sheath from the front. The back is exposed from the shoulders to low back with the exception of draping framin...
Chanel S/S1995 Barbie Pink 24K Gold Chain Around Patent Lambskin Jumbo XL Bag
By Chanel
Located in Jersey City, NJ
An iconic and highly sought-after piece from Chanel’s Spring-Summer 1995 (95P) Act II collection, this Jumbo XL Chain Around Single Flap bag is a true collector’s treasure. Designed ...
Hermes Mini Herbag 20 in Ecru Ebene handbag
By Hermès
Located in London, England
Hermes Mini Herbag 20 in Ecru Ebene handbag. This Hermes Herbag Mini blends Ecru Beige Toile H canvas with Ebene Vache Hunter leather, elegantly accented by Hermes Herbag gold hardwa...
The House of Savoy coat of arms and knotted rope on Prada’s seal herald that the iconic Italian luxury fashion house was named Official Supplier to the Italian Royal Household in 1919. Started in 1913 by Mario Prada, the brand’s original shop in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II still has the mahogany shelves that displayed its early wares such as travel items and handbags. Today, these fine leather goods are joined by the clothing, wallets and other various accessories that keep the brand on the cutting edge of fashion.
When Mario Prada’s granddaughter, Miuccia Prada (b. 1949), inherited the business from her mother in the late 1970s, Prada was recognized for its quality craftsmanship, yet it was still a modest-sized company. Miuccia, an enthusiast of unconventional Italian filmmakers who’d earned a Ph.D. in political science, introduced the concept of using pocone — a military-grade water-resistant nylon that feels like silk.
Nylon revolutionized the fashion house’s business, with the first Prada nylon backpack released to universal acclaim in 1984. Soon the durable, water-resistant material was incorporated into Prada’s ready-to-wear collections for both men and women. No one had previously considered nylon a part of luxury fashion, and it wasn’t long before the family-owned company best known for its luggage was leading modern style that emphasized function as much as form.
Characterized by clean lines and a refined elegance that signaled the new direction of the legacy brand, Miuccia Prada debuted her first ready-to-wear collection for women in Fall/Winter 1988. More inventive fashion would follow in the ensuing years, such as the 1993 launch of the more affordable, more playful Miu Miu line, which was aimed at a younger audience, and the introduction of Prada Sport in 1997 — a collection now widely seen as prescient for its embrace of athleisure.
Prada has regularly gone against the grain to elevate styles that have long been out of fashion. In 1996, there were dresses and skirts in clashing patterns and muted earth tones that seemed flat and outdated, all worn with chunky high wedge sandals. Fanny packs followed three years later, and elaborate lace in 2008. Each season continues to bring new eye-catching innovations for the historic brand, including enhanced attention to sustainability with Prada Re-Nylon, a new line of bags created from recycled ocean plastic.
Today, find a wide variety of vintage Prada evening dresses, bags and other items on 1stDibs.
Ever since we’ve needed an accessory to carry our personal items when we’re on the go, shoulder bags have proven indispensable. Today, vintage and designer shoulder bags are such a treasured part of fashion history that they even get their own museum exhibitions. And while lovers of luxury handbags and purses are savvier now and have a wider range of shopping options, classics created by brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior and Balenciaga still rule.
Prior to bags becoming an essential piece of any ensemble for any gender, women wore pockets strung on ribbons as garments that were separate from their gowns, accessible by openings in the fabric. Small handbags and handheld purses were developed before the accessory gained importance as functional and fashionable. Most had more in common with wallets than anything else.
While the bags of the 16th century warranted ornament, such as exteriors embroidered with silver-gilt thread and beads, it wasn’t until the late 18th century and early 19th century that the design and craft of bags had really broadened. Handheld purses were finished with details that were meant to garner attention, and bags were fitted with shoulder straps. A stylish shoulder bag meant that women could tote jewelry, cash and perhaps a decorative snuff box full of tobacco to an evening ball across town.
The early 1900s saw the introduction of gold and silver minaudières. The patenting of these compact bejeweled clutches has been attributed to revered French jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels, and today they remain a fashion favorite. One of Judith Leiber’s innovative minaudières even earned a role in the movie Sex and the City.
A luxury shoulder bag is a work of art with a long, fascinating origin story, and entire brands and fashion lines have emerged around creating the perfect versions of shoulder bags and top-handle bags. For example, the iconic Hermès Kelly bag, which was popularized by actress Grace Kelly, is a widely coveted, collected and often faked entry from the handbag hall of fame. And while vintage Gucci tote bags have their own dedicated fan base, collectors are likely familiar with the Dionysus, a pared-down Gucci shoulder bag that manages to make a substantial statement anyway.
Embrace a classic look with a vintage shoulder bag designed by Chanel, Givenchy or Fendi — find yours on 1stDibs today.