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Victorian Beaded Bags

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Victorian Hand-Beaded Reticule Evening Bag 1870s
Located in Burbank, CA
Offered here is a Victorian gold-washed expandable hand-beaded reticule evening bag from around the
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1870s Evening Bags and Minaudières

1890s Victorian Black Beaded Pouch with Filigree Frame and Carved Detail
Located in San Francisco, CA
1890s victorian black beaded pouch with unusual hand carved frame embellishment. Filigree metal
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1890s Evening Bags and Minaudières

Large Victorian Beaded Bag Rare Oriental Carpet Design. 1880's.
Located in University City, MO
Rare and striking fringed Victorian beaded bag depicting an oriental rug. The detail here is just
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1880s British Evening Bags and Minaudières

Victorian Micro Bead Floral Bag
Located in New York, NY
Victorian Micro Bead Floral Bag, Lined in peach satin with matching enamel plaques and seed pearl
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1950s American Evening Bags and Minaudières

Antique Victorian Micro Glass Beaded Flower Extra Large Drawstring Bag
Located in Antwerpen, Vlaams Gewest
Exquisite antique Victorian beaded flower extra large drawstring bag. Pink satin lining Excellent
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1870s French Evening Bags and Minaudières

Victorian Micro-Beaded Scenic Fringed Bag. Floral Metal Clasp. 1880's.
Located in University City, MO
Victorian micro-beaded scenic fringed bag depicting two Shaker style cottages in a stylized
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1880s American Evening Bags and Minaudières

Turquoise and Silver Bead Victorian Bag
Located in New York, NY
Turquoise and ribbed silver bead, dual sided evening purse. THis bag is a true antique and is about
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Late 19th Century Unknown Evening Bags and Minaudières

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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.

Questions About Victorian Beaded Bags
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Beaded bags became very popular in the late 1800s, first in France where the fashion of the day was established. As women’s clothing became more form-fitting, they lost pockets which necessitated carrying a handbag. Small beaded bags were the perfect accessory and they allowed a woman to show off her beading skills. Find a collection of vintage and modern beaded bags on 1stDibs.