Stella Mccartney Tweed Bag
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21st Century and Contemporary Shoulder Bags
Finding the Right Shoulder-bags for You
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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Italy is where most manufacturing of Stella McCartney occurs, accounting for roughly 65% of raw material sourcing and production of finished goods for the high-fashion line. Find vintage and contemporary Stella McCartney clothing, bags and shoes from some of the worlds top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024People describe Stella McCartney's brand personality in many different ways. Many people use words like "sophisticated" and "well-tailored" to describe the brand's ready-to-wear and high-end pieces. You'll also often see experts and brand devotees say that Stella McCartney clothing and accessories have playful or imaginative touches. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Stella McCartney apparel and accessories.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024A few things make Stella McCartney special. First, the brand has a reputation for offering well-tailored pieces with feminine flourishes and unexpected details. Stella McCartney also has pledged to take a sustainable approach to design. She uses many innovative materials, such as Savia, a plant-based alternative to animal fur, and BioPuff, a plant-based replacement for feather-down insulation. In addition, the brand has adopted ethical, fair labor policies and does not use sweatshop labor to produce its pieces. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Stella McCartney apparel and accessories.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024Yes, Stella McCartney is a high-end brand. Since founding her eponymous fashion brand in 2001, Stella McCartney has earned a stellar reputation for offering expertly tailored pieces produced out of fine fabrics that reflect a mission of ethics and sustainability, which has meant no leather, fur, feathers or other animal skins. Instead, the brand has elevated upcycled and recycled materials such as ocean plastics, and used organic cotton, such as in a collaborative collection with Greenpeace. Many celebrities are loyal devotees of the label, such as Chrissy Tiegen, Halsey, Gwen Stefani, Taylor Swift, Eva Mendes, Florence Pugh, Kate Hudson and Zendaya. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Stella McCartney apparel and accessories.