Dior Diorama MIni White Leather Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Torre Del Greco, IT
Mini shoulder bag by Dior, model Diorama, made of white leather with silver hardware embellished
Dior Diorama MIni White Leather Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Torre Del Greco, IT
Mini shoulder bag by Dior, model Diorama, made of white leather with silver hardware embellished
Christian Dior Y2K Brown & Cream Pony Hair Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Christian Dior Y2K Brown & Cream Pony Hair Shoulder Bag, a stunning accessory that
Christian Dior 2003 Girly Pink Trotter Monogram Shoulder Bag
By John Galliano, Christian Dior
Located in London, GB
John Galliano era Christian Dior Girly pink Trotter monogram bag. 2000s messenger bag style. All
Christian Dior Off White Grained Calfskin J'Adior Chain Flap Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Christian Dior Off White Grained Calfskin J'Adior Chain Flap Bag SKU: 152637
Christian Dior Tote Shopping Bag White Canvas Bag With Logo, Medium
By Christian Dior
Located in New York, NY
Handle 11.42 Shoulder handle Size Medium Color White Material Canvas Made in Italy Please Note: All
Dior Vintage Embroidered Diorissimo Bowler Bag Top White Monogram
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior Vintage Embroidered Diorissimo Bowler Bag Top White Monogram These are professional photos of
$2,043Sale Price|35% Off
Dior Saddle bag white grain leather mini size
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior Saddle bag white grain leather mini size These are professional photos of the actual bag
CHRISTIAN DIOR black & white leather 2018 CHECK LADY DIOR MEDIUM TOTE Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Dior Limited Edition Lady Dior shoulder bag in black and white calfskin
Lady Dior Mini 2018 Embroidered White Calfskin Leather Gold Beads Crossbody Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
: Lady Dior Made in Italy 2018 Exterior Material : Lambskin leather Exterior Color: White Hardware color
Dior No. 1 Rasta Trotter Bowling Bag Blue Oblique Canvas White Patent Leather
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior No. 1 Rasta Trotter Bowling Bag Blue Oblique Canvas White Patent Leather These are
CHRISTIAN DIOR pink & ivory LOGO EMBROIDERED Canvas Bag Strap
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Dior bag strap in light pink and ecru canvas featuring gold-tone clasps
Christian Dior White Leather Shoulder Shopper Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This stunning Christian Dior Shoulder bag is in good condition. The exterior features beautiful
Christian Dior Cannage Canvas Panarea Tote Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Rome, Rome
bag is crafted from durable white canvas in France, offering a fresh and sophisticated look that is
Dior Vintage Surf Chick Shoulder Bag Blue and White Chinese Porcelain Print
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
stains on the inside and outside. DETAILS Christian Dior Shoulder Bag From 2004 Collection by John
Dior Beige/White Oblique Canvas and Leather Floral Embroidered Saddle Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
An example of timeless style and great design ideas Diors Saddle bag is sought after for all the
Unavailable
H 7.08 in W 8.26 in L 13.7 in
Dior Oblique Signature Trotter Boston 868417 Pink Polyurethane Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Forest Hills, NY
) : 18.11 inch Handle (cm) : 46 cm Color : Pinks Material :PVC Come with : Dust Bag Country of Manufacture
Christian Dior White Canvas Floral Print Mini Saddle Bag
By John Galliano for Christian Dior, Christian Dior
Located in Montreal, Quebec
This Limited Edition Dior mini saddle bag is made of white canvas with a multicoloured floral print
Dior White Leather Shoulder Bag - SHW
By Christian Dior
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This Dior white leather shoulder bag has silver hardware. On the front, there is a silver CD detail
CHRISTIAN DIOR white leather SADDLE Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
Christian Dior 'Saddle' bag in off-white leather with CD detail on the strap. Magentic-snap pocket
CHRISTIAN DIOR white leather MINI LADY DIOR CHAIN Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Dior Mini Lady Dior shoulder bag in white smooth calfskin with signature
Christian Dior White Milk Leather Saddle Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Rome, Rome
certificate will be provided at no further cost. Gorgeous CHRISTIAN DIOR Saddle Bag. This stylish shoulder bag
Christian Dior Vintage White Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Rome, Rome
A timeless piece from the house of Dior, this vintage Christian Dior shoulder bag is a refined
Original Dior White Saddle Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Paris, FR
Amazing vintage Christian Dior original saddle bag from 2002 in white leather Condition : good Made
Christiana Dior White Nubuck Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Capri, IT
Christian Dior Nubuck Medium Jeanne Frame Bag This chic tote is beautifully crafted of chartreuse
CHRISTIAN DIOR white leather & red patent CADILLAC SADDLE Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
Christian Dior Vintage 'Cadillac' saddle bag in quilted white calfskin and a strawberry red patent
Sold
H 7.09 in D 3.94 in L 4.73 in
CHRISTIAN DIOR white PRINTED leather CRUISE 2016 LTD ED Bucket Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
Christion Dior bucket form the Cruise 16 collection in off-white calfskin with embossed multicolor
CHRISTIAN DIOR 2022 Vibe blue white cannage lambskin hobo shoulder bag
By MARIA GRAZIA CHIURI, Christian Dior
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN DIOR 2022 Vibe blue white cannage lambskin hobo shoulder bag Reference: JYLM/A00049 Brand
Dior Ivory Monogram Trotter Twin Pocket Saddle Shoulder Bag 104da48
By Christian Dior
Located in Dix hills, NY
: 10" Shoulder Handle Drop: 7.5" OVERALL VERY GOOD CONDITION (7.5/10 or B+ ) Accessories
Christian Dior white python saddle bag NWOT
By Christian Dior
Located in Capri, IT
Christian Dior white python saddle bag NWOT Vintage white python saddle with silver tone hardware
Dior Limited Edition Rare Columnbus Dior Strict Chic White Rhinestones Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior Limited Edition Rare Columnbus Dior Strict Chic White Rhinestones Bag These are professional
Dior Boston Bowling Bag White Oblique Monogram Canvas With Flower Embroidery
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior Boston Bowling Bag White Oblique Monogram Canvas With Flower Embroidery These are professional
CHRISTIAN DIOR White Grained Calfskin Leather Charm Saddle Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
CHRISTIAN DIOR White Grained Calfskin Leather Charm Saddle Bag Xupes Reference: HB4495 Serial
Dior White Leather Le Trente Hobo Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in London, GB
blue discolouring at the base on this used Dior designer resale item. Details White Leather
2002 Christian Dior White Python Leather Saddle Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
CHRISTIAN DIOR White Python Leather Saddle Bag Reference: HB2389 Serial Number: 10-MA-1022 Age
CHRISTIAN DIOR red blue white 2021 LOGO VELVET Bag Strap
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Dior bag strap in red, navy and off-white velvet and canvas featuring gold
Rare Christian Dior 2024 Newspaper Print White Black Calfskin Saddle Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Jersey City, NJ
removable, allowing it to be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder, or crossbody. New with box, dust bag
Rare Christian Dior 2024 Newspaper Print White Black Calfskin Saddle Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Jersey City, NJ
removable, allowing it to be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder, or crossbody. New with box, dust bag
2015 Christian Dior White Python Leather Small Bubble Bucket Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
CHRISTIAN DIOR White Python Leather Small Bubble Bucket Bag Reference: HB1865 Serial Number: 09-BO
Dior Ivory Monogram Trotter Twin Pocket Saddle Shoulder Bag 104da48
Located in Dix hills, NY
: 10" Shoulder Handle Drop: 7.5" OVERALL VERY GOOD CONDITION (7.5/10 or B+ ) Accessories
Dior No. 1 Rasta Trotter Bowling Bag Red Oblique Canvas White Patent Leather
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior No. 1 Rasta Trotter Bowling Bag Red Oblique Canvas White Patent Leather These are professional
Christian Dior by John Galliano ballet / corset bag in White Leather
By John Galliano, Christian Dior
Located in Bressanone, Trentino-Alto Adige
Dior by John Galliano ballet / corset bag in leather color white, silver hardware. Condition
Christian Dior Vintage White Leather Crossbody Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Rome, Rome
Vintage CHRISTIAN DIOR shoulder bag crafted in white leather. Flap with magnetic button closure
Sold
H 7.88 in W 10.04 in D 2.56 in
Christian Dior White, Lilac, Red, Orange Beaded Saddle Bag with Shoulder Strap
By Christian Dior
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Christian Dior White, Lilac, Red, Orange Beaded & Black Calfskin Leather Saddle Bag with Shoulder
CHRISTIAN DIOR 2022 Vibe blue white cannage lambskin hobo shoulder bag
By MARIA GRAZIA CHIURI, Christian Dior
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN DIOR 2022 Vibe blue white cannage lambskin hobo shoulder bag Reference: JYLM/A00049 Brand
CHRISTIAN DIOR 2022 Vibe blue white cannage lambskin hobo shoulder bag
By MARIA GRAZIA CHIURI, Christian Dior
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN DIOR 2022 Vibe blue white cannage lambskin hobo shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/E00775 Brand
Dior Vintage Leather White CD Flap Saddle Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
This Christian Dior bag is made with white leather , large CD logo plaque in sliver tone on the
Dior ‘Cadillac’ Shoulder Bag, Pink/White Leather, John Galliano, S/S 2001
By Christian Dior
Located in Paris, FR
Designed by John Galliano for Christian Dior’s Spring/Summer 2001 collection, the “Car” bag
Christian Dior Monogram White Logo Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Christian Dior monogram leather shoulder bag. White and gray pattern with white leather trimming
Dior White Leather Pochette Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Let this lovely Dior bag be the handbag you take everywhere! This petite shoulder bag is made from
Dior White Leather Small Diorama Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
, the bag sweeps us off our feet. It has been crafted from subtle white leather. A magnetic closure on
Dior White Quilted Leather Medium Miss Dior Promenade Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Structured, sophisticated, and stylish are some words that describe this shoulder bag! Crafted from
Dior White Quilted Leather Medium Miss Dior Promenade Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Structured, sophisticated, and stylish are some words that describe this shoulder bag! Crafted from
Dior White Patent Leather Small Diorama Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
the appeal of this Dior bag. Made from patent leather, the chain-leather shoulder strap makes it a
Dior White Leather Medium Diorama Flap Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
This elegant Diorama shoulder bag is perfect for your next outing to town. It is made of high
Dior Black/White Printed Ayers Miss Dior Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Discover unparalleled style and functionality with this women's shoulder bag. Meticulously designed
Dior White Cannage Leather Medium Caro Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
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...
Dior White Monogram Diorissimo Trotter Shoulder Bag (2006)
By Christian Dior
Located in Montreal, Quebec
COLOR: White MATERIAL: Canvas with leather detail DATE CODE: 01-RU-0046 MEASURES: H 9” x W 12” x D
Dior Off White Leather J'adior Flap Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
The house of Dior offers this beautiful creation to help you create timeless style edits every
Dior White Leather Dio(r)evolution Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Dior. It is a visually-powerful accessory and a comfortably versatile one too! The bag combines white
Dior White Leather Medium Diorama Paradise Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
from white leather, the bag features contrasting elements, a shoulder chain strap and a flap with a
Dior Off -White Leather 30 Montaigne Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Elevate your style with this Christian Dior bag. Merging form and function this exquisite accessory
Dior Off White Leather Medium Bobby Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
For a look that is complete with style, taste, and a touch of luxe, this shoulder bag is the
Dior Off White Leather Medium Bobby Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
For a look that is complete with style, taste, and a touch of luxe, this shoulder bag is the
Dior White/Grey Honeycomb Coated Canvas Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Get style and carry your essentials with ease using this designer shoulder bag. It has been crafted
Dior White Patent Leather Small Diorama Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
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
Dior White Cannage Studded Leather Lady Dior East West Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Fall in love instantly with this shoulder bag by Dior. Made from white leather, it is just about
Dior Off White Leather Small Diorama Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Crafted from quality materials, your wardrobe is missing out on this beautifully made designer bag
Dior Off White Leather and Sequin Mini Diorama Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
, the bag sweeps us off our feet. It has been crafted from off white leather and sequins and covered in
Christian Dior Lady Dior shoulder bag in white patent cannage leather, SHW
By Christian Dior
Located in Paris, IDF
in silver metal illuminate its silhouette. This wide Lady Dior bag features an adjustable shoulder
Dior Pink/Pearl White Leather Small Diorling Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
This Diorling shoulder bag by Dior promises function and appeal. It has been crafted from pink
Dior Off White/Black Leather Large Diorling Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Dior Diorling bag was introduced in Spring/Summer 2013 Collection. Made from off-white and black
VALENTINO BOUTIQUE Vintage Floral Beaded Black Silk Gown Ruffle Maxi Dress
By Valentino
Located in Leonardo, NJ
Valentino Boutique Vintage 100% silk Jet black silk with beautiful beads, sequins, and threading to create a romantic floral cascading pattern Double v-neck front and back with delic...
Swarovski Crystal Beaded Calfskin Leather Clutch
By Daniel Swarovski
Located in North Miami, FL
This stunning Daniel Swarovski crystal beaded clutch has tan buff calfskin leather with a light purple silk interior. The front is all crystals while the back is the tan supple leath...
Christian Dior by John Galliano Lace Up Dress
By Christian Dior, John Galliano
Located in Water Mill, NY
A gorgeous black silk dress by John Galliano for Christian Dior. The body of the dress is made of fine black stretch silk with functional adjustable lacing at the center front and b...
CHRISTIAN DIOR burgundy CROCODILE LADY DIOR MEDIUM Tote Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Christian Dior Medium Lady Dior bag is crafted in glossy burgundy crocodile leather with a luxurious sheen. The structured silhouette is accented with two hard to...
Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Haute Couture Bow Skirt Suit, Circa 1985
By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld
Located in Geneva, CH
Iconic, timeless, chic and versatile ! Very few garment can provide these four qualities simultaneously. A Chanel skirt suit has definitely such power, especially when it is Haute Co...
Roberto Cavalli S/S 2003 Chinoiserie Cheongsam Red Midi Dress
By Roberto Cavalli
Located in Naples, FL
Roberto Cavalli S/S 2003 Chinoiserie Cheongsam Print Red Midi Dress Condition: Good Vintage Condition, size tag has been removed. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @OPULENTADDICT
$1,308
Size: ONE SIZE / See dimensions.
2000's Christian Dior John Galliano Black Satin Diamanté Rhinestone shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior, John Galliano for Christian Dior
Located in Sheffield, GB
2004 Christian Dior by John Galliano Shoulder bag, crafted from a smooth black satin with jacquard Dior signature details, decorative rhinestone Carabina clip and iconic 'Galliano er...
Versace F/W 2011 Runway Mink Fur and Leather Belted Knee-Length Red Jacket Coat
By Versace
Located in Naples, FL
Versace Mink Fur and Leather Belted Knee-Length Red Jacket Coat IT 42 Versace mink fur and leather knee-length red coat featuring floral pattern throughout, stand collar with dual b...
$375Sale Price|21% Off
H 2.75 in D 1.25 in L 4.5 in
Opulent Mother of Pearl Crystal Encrusted Compact Evening Bag by Elgin c 1950s
By Elgin
Located in University City, MO
Opulent mother of pearl crystal encrusted evening bag- compact case designed by Eligin c 1950s The elegant evening purse - cosmetic case is designed with exotic mother of pearl ti...
Christian Dior by John Galliano 2001 lizard embossed patent saddle bag
By Christian Dior, John Galliano for Christian Dior
Located in PARIS, FR
Rare Christian Dior by John Galliano 2001 collection Brown gold lizard embossed leather patent saddle bag, 24k gold plated hardware, very good condition only wear on a part of the tr...
$2,295
Size: Small - Medium
Christian Dior John Galliano Fall 2001 Black White Novelty Domino Print Cami Top
By John Galliano for Christian Dior, John Galliano
Located in San Diego, CA
Collectible CHRISTIAN DIOR by JOHN GALLIANO Fall 2001 runway vintage black and white novelty print playing cards and domino semi sheer mesh camisole top! Kris Jenner ( Mother of Kim ...
Dior Saddle Mini Classic Black Nylon Red Flower Embroidery Clutch Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Dior Saddle Mini Classic Black Nylon Red Flower Embroidery Clutch Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. CONDITION: Good vintage condition with signs...
White wedding ( or evening) dress CHRISTIAN DIOR by Maria-Grazia Chiuri
By Christian Dior, MARIA GRAZIA CHIURI
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
White wedding ( or evening) dress. No fabric composition tag but probably rayon. Invisible zip and hook&eye closure on the middle back. Button and buttonhole closure on the cuffs and...
S/S 1999 Roberto Cavalli Sheer Zebra Slip Dress
By Roberto Cavalli
Located in Austin, TX
S/S 1999 Roberto Cavalli Sheer Zebra Slip Dress Chest: 32-36", Waist: 30-36, Hips: 40-49", Length: 54.5" Condition: Excellent Size S ( fits S - M )
Bill Blass Vintage Black Soutache Evening Dress
By Bill Blass
Located in Sparks, NV
Bill Blass black evening dress with a soutache bodice and asymmetric front slit. Details: Fully Lined Side Zip Hook Closure/ Front Button Closure Marked Size: 6 Estimated S...
Hermes Kelly Kellywood 22 Wood Kelly Barenia Leather Limited Edition
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an exquisite limited edition Hermes Kellywood "Kelly Wood" 22 bag featured in bog oak and Barenia leather. Not since the Sterling Kelly bag, has Hermes offered a ba...
When Christian Dior launched his couture house, in 1946, he wanted nothing less than to make “an elegant woman more beautiful and a beautiful woman more elegant.” He succeeded, and in doing so the visionary designer altered the landscape of 20th century fashion. Vintage Dior bags, shoes, evening dresses, shirts and other garments and accessories are known today for their feminine and sophisticated sensibility.
Dior was born in Granville, on the Normandy coast, in 1905. His prosperous haute bourgeois parents wanted him to become a diplomat despite his interest in art and architecture. However, they agreed to bankroll an art gallery, which Dior opened in 1928 in Paris with a friend.
This was the start of Dior’s rise in the city’s creative milieu, where he befriended Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau. After seven years as an art dealer, Dior retrained as a fashion illustrator, eventually landing a job as a fashion designer for Robert Piguet, and in 1941, following a year of military service, he joined the house of Lucien Lelong. Just five years later, with the backing of industrialist Marcel Boussac, the ascendant Dior established his own fashion house, at 30 avenue Montaigne in Paris.
Just two years after the end of World War II, the fashion crowd and the moribund haute couture industry were yearning, comme tout Paris, for security and prosperity, desperate to discard the drab, sexless, utilitarian garb imposed by wartime deprivation. They needed to dream anew.
And Dior delivered: He designed a collection for a bright, optimistic future. “It’s quite a revolution, dear Christian!” exclaimed Carmel Snow, the prescient American editor-in-chief of Harper’s Bazaar, famously proclaiming, “Your dresses have such a new look.” The press ran with the description, christening Dior’s debut Spring/Summer haute couture collection the New Look. “God help those who bought before they saw Dior,” said Snow. “This changes everything.”
Dior’s collection definitively declared that opulence, luxury and femininity were in. His skirts could have 40-meter-circumference hems, and outfits could weigh up to 60 pounds. They were cut and shaped like architecture, on strong foundations that molded women and “freed them from nature,” Dior said. Rather than rationing, his ladies wanted reams of fabric and 19-inch waists enforced by wire corsets, and the fashion world concurred. The debut got a standing ovation.
In the subsequent decade, Paris ruled as the undisputed fashion capital of the world, and Christian Dior reigned as its king. With the luxuriously full skirts of his New Look, suits and his drop-dead gorgeous couture dresses and ball gowns worthy of any princess, Dior gave women the gift of glamour they’d lost in the miserable years of war.
On 1stDibs, find an exquisite range of vintage Christian Dior clothing, jewelry, handbags and other items.
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.