New York City’s maverick handbag designer, the Brazilian-born Carlos Falchi, began his multibillion-dollar accessories brand in the bathtub of his Greenwich Village apartment.
In the 1960s, Falchi started by making leather clothing — bleaching snakeskin in his tub — for rock stars and jazz artists like Mick Jagger, Tina Turner and Miles Davis. But when he turned his attention to handbags, persuaded by Geraldine Stultz, the president of Henri Bendel, he found his true calling.
In a world flush with iconic “It” handbags, Falchi’s bags are distinctive and eye-catching, with soft, pliable forms, dazzling patchwork designs and dyed skins from exotic animals such as alligators, frogs, buffalo and water snakes. Even though he was a self-taught artisan, Falchi managed to reinvent the approach that yields the stiff, formal structure typically associated with the upright handbags of European luxury houses. His groundbreaking and oft-imitated Buffalo bag, an unconstructed and lightweight satchel made from a single skin with only two seams and a gathered front, went on to garner universal success for the craftsman, with Women’s Wear Daily deeming it “the most copied bag in the industry.” For his celebrated slouchy bag, Falchi was inspired by the draping techniques he learned while attending art school in Japan. In 1983, he won a Coty American Fashion Critics Award for the accessory.
Falchi made his clutches, shoulder bags and top-handled bags by hand in his New York City atelier, and the designer’s work garnered praise from fashion legends such as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Barbra Streisand and Sarah Jessica Parker. In the years leading up to his death in 2015, Falchi began to sell inexpensive versions of his handbags on the Home Shopping Channel. A sampling of his work is held today in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Find a range of vintage Carlos Falchi handbags and purses on 1stDibs.
Carlos Falchi Pieced Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi Pieced Clutch of snake, leather and faux pony skin printed leopard. 12" x 8"x 2" width. Long shoulder strap which can be tucked away. 1980's USA. Excellent condition. ...
$150Sale Price|33% Off
Vintage Carlos Falchi Classic Black Patent Leather Pumps / Heels / Shoes Size 8
By Carlos Falchi
Located in San Diego, CA
The ultimate pair of classic black pumps! These 1990s Carlos Falchi (Size 8) beauties are anything but boring! Great black patent leather, with a pointed heel (not too severe), and l...
$971Sale Price|25% Off
1980s Carlos Falchi XL Python Snakeskin White Taupe Vintage Shoulder Bag Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in San Diego, CA
Chic 80s CARLOS FALCHI extra large white and taupe python snake shoulder bag, messenger bag ( crossbody ) or clutch ! The possibilities are endless with this neutral beauty. Snaps sh...
Carlos Falchi Green Suede Gathered Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi graphic green suede gathered shoulder bag with zebra print. Signature "gathered" flap with interior drawstring closure. Long strap can be worn crossbody. Lined in black...
Carlos Falchi Oversized Straw Tote
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi Oversized Straw Tote with signature gathered leather flap detail and ribbed ball decoration. Bag is lined in a gold textile with long shoulder...
Carlo Falchi Black Suede Accented with Crocodile-Skin Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlo Falchi wonderful soft black suede shoulder bag accented with soft crocodile-skin. The interior is accented with black silk. The s...
Carlo Falchi Shades of Creams and Gray Pylon Skin Crossbody Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlo Falchi crossbody shoulder bag in shades of creams and gray pylon skin has an adjustable shoulder strap. The interior is lined with a cream textured silk as well as a zippere...
Carlos Falchi Large Purple Signature Buffalo with Pylon, Lizard and Cobra Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi Large signature purple buffalo-skin accented with multi-colored Pylon, Lizard and Cobra skins along the center. Optional shoulder strap of buffalo-skin nicely tuck...
Carlos Falchi 1990s Blue Crocodile Patchwork Clutch Bag for Women
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This simply stunning Carlos Falchi clutch is a must have for any collector’s wardrobe. The exterior is in beautiful condition featuring patch work...
Carlos Falchi Cream & Black Faux Fur Crossover Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi wonderful cream & black faux fur cross-body shoulder bag features a silk cream lining including a zippered compartment. The exterior corners are accented with r...
Carlos Falchi Beige Ostrich Mini Sac, 1980s
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Toronto, Ontario
1980's beige Carlos Falchi ostrich mini sac with cross body shoulder strap. Classic draw string style with mini snap hidden closure. Blind stamped intrica...
Carlos Falchi Leopard Print Calf Hair Hinged Vintage Crossbody Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Carlos Falchi Leopard Print Calf Hair Hinged Vintage Crossbody Clutch is a striking accessory that combines luxury with a bold, wild aesthetic. Crafted from premium calf hair featuri...
1980s Carlos Falchi Drawstring Crossbody Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the exquisite 1980s Carlos Calchi Crossbody Handbag – a true treasure that beautifully captures the essence of vintage charm and contemporary style. This super unique bag...
Carlos Falchi Vintage Crossbody Drawstring Mini Handbag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Discover the perfect blend of modern elegance and vintage charm with the Carlos Falchi Crossbody Mini Drawstring Bag. This handbag boasts a neutral creme-colored faux snake skin fabr...
Carlos Falchi Large "Shades of Browns" Multi Skin Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi Signature multi "shades of browns" multi skins such as snake and lizard makes for a wonderful clutch. The sides are finished with embossed calfskin for...
$685Sale Price|50% Off
Carlos Falchi Multi-Textured Exotic Skins Coco Brown Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
As only Carlos Falchi can, This wonderful multi-texture combination of lizard, snake and pylon skin finished with lambskin leather piping along the edges as well as the interi...
Carlos Falchi '80s large hobo shoulder bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
This '80s Carlos Falchi hobo bag is great for everyday use. Made of butter-soft leather. And you can tuck the straps inside the bag and use it as a clutch. The signature Carlos Falch...
Carlos Falchi Textured Violet Buffalo Shoulder Bag With Embossed Detail
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi wonderful textured violet buffalo shoulder bag is detailed with their signature name logo embossed on the exterior front flap...
Carlos Falchi Beige Linen and Silver Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Alford, MA
Carlos Falchi convertible clutch in a natural linen fabric overlaid with an applied off center silver grid. A thin silver leather strap converts the clutch Into to a shoulder bag. Zi...
$885Sale Price|46% Off
Rare Carlos Falchi Multi-Skins Multi-Color Large Shoulder Bag & Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
This wonderfully rare Carlos Falchi large shoulder bag with the option to wear use as a clutch is combined with multi-skins of snakeskin, lizard skin and pylon skins as well ...
Carlos Falchi Black & Gold Embossed Alligator Calfskin Clutch/ Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi wonderful black and metallic gold embossed alligator calfskin clutch has the option to use as a shoulder bag as well if desired. Black lizard skin is detailed on...
Carlos Falchi lizard patchwork clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi large snake & lizard clutch are in hues of tans and browns. The patchwork is finished with detailed top stitching. The large clutch measures 13 1/2" in width, 8...
Carlos Falchi Textured Embossed Gun-Metal Plum & Charcoal Handbag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi Textured gun-metal embossed calfskin are in hues of charcoal and plum with metallic gold threading hand-sewn throughout the bag. Accented with a heavy gold hardware cha...
Carlos Falchi Textured Calfskin Zippered Patchwork "Jungle" Scene Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi wonderfully detailed textured calfskin shoulder bag has a zippered top. The patchwork "Jungle" scene consists of a metallic bronze "moon", leopard print pony, py...
1980s Carlos Falchi Drawstring Crossbody Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the exquisite 1980s Carlos Calchi Crossbody Handbag - a true treasure that beautifully captures the essence of vintage charm and contemporary style. This super unique bag...
New Rare Limited Edition Pink Brown Leather Louis Vuitton Monogram Crystals
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Indulge in the ultimate footwear icon with the Louis Vuitton Trainer Low 'Pink Brown' 1A8Z6Y. Crafted from supple calfskin leather, this sneaker showcases a sophisticated blend of pi...
Rare Ileene Reeves 1970s Handpainted Fairytale Fairies Vintage Handbag 70s Purse
Located in San Diego, CA
Rare mid 1970s ILEENE REEVES hand painted plexiglass novelty handbag! Features fairies, flowers, mushrooms and daisies throughout. Secure front closure. Interior features a mirror on...
1960's Vintage PIERRE CARDIN Crocodile Skin Pouch Bag with Shoulder Strap
By Pierre Cardin
Located in Sheffield, GB
A rare 1960's PIERRE CARDIN pouch bag, with Singular shoulder strap and made entirely from crocodile skin with large and iconic sixties Cardin Logo. Features; Iconic PIERRE CARDIN exterior Emblem logo /Press stud closure One large leather lined interior with additional small interior compartments Singe Strap. MADE IN FRANCE ONE SIZE. Measurements provided in inches; Length; 7'' Depth; 6'' Width; 2'' Strap; 25'' Condition 5/10. The bag is considered an Archival Museum Quality Piece...
1990s Bottega Veneta Black Quilted Satin Bag
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Lovely Bottega Veneta mailbag from the 1990s. Black quilted satin with black top stitching. Demi lune shape with two black pom poms. Black satin interior. The long, thin black strap ...
$497
W 4.5 in D 1 in L 8 in
Dolce & Gabbana 2000'S Python Skin & Swarovski Crystal Black Satin Shoulder Bag
By Dolce & Gabbana
Located in Sheffield, GB
A Chic early 2000's Vintage Black Python skin, Satin & Swarovski crystal shoulder bag by DOLCE & GABBANA. Features; Press stud fasten / Metal Chain shoulder strap / Interior...
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...
EMILIO PUCCI c.1960's Multicolor Velvet Abstract Print Top Handle Mini Handbag
By Emilio Pucci
Located in Thiensville, WI
EMILIO PUCCI c.1960's Multicolored Velvet Abstract Printed Top Handle Mini Hand Bag Brand / Manufacturer: Emilio Pucci Circa: 1960's Style: Structured t...
Chanel Blue Caviar Leather Quilted Small Double Flap Classic Bag
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Chanel Blue Caviar Leather Quilted Small Double Flap Classic Bag Made In: France Year of Production: 2021 Color: Blye Hardware: Goldtone Mat...
Hermes Marwari PM Blue Leather Shoulder Hobo Bag Brown Strap 2011
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition Normal signs of wear, clean inside and out. Size Width: 30cm, Height: 36cm Designer HERMES Model Marwari PM Blue Exterior Material Leather Exterior Color Blue Interior Ma...
$995
H 3.4 in D 0.5 in L 3.25 in
Chanel RARE COLLECTORS Black Vintage Quilted Satin Micro Flap Bag Necklace
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Chanel Black Vintage Quilted Satin Micro Flap Bag Necklace Made In: France Year of Production: 1990s Color: Black Hardware: Goldtone Materials: Satin Linin...
2017 Dior LockBox Zodiac Limited Edition Shoulder Bag
By Christian Dior
Located in Torre Del Greco, IT
Bag signed Dior model LockBox made of smooth black leather with front painting depicting the symbol of cufflinks and gold hardware. Equipped with a removable black leather shoulder strap...
Chanel Mini Classic Flap Micro Beige Lambskin Leather Cross Body Bag
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
This Celebrity Favorite has Diamond Quilting and a Gold Plated CC Turnlock Closure and hardware. Approximate measurements are 5.5" x 4" x 1.5" with a drop of about 22" on the gold ...
Hermes Mini Bolide 1923 Matte Alligator Vert Comics Tote Bag Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Mini Bolide 1923 bag eatured in striking Vert Comics matte Alligator. Charming 'baby' Bolide is a fabulous day to evening treasure. Fresh and crisp with ...
$175Sale Price|22% Off
H 4.5 in D 2.25 in L 7 in
SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Black Satin Egg Shaped Versatile Clutch - Shoulder Bag c 1980s
By Saks Fifth Avenue
Located in University City, MO
SAKS FIFTH AVENUE Black matte satin egg shaped clutch - shoulder bag c 1980s The elegant black satin evening bag is adorned with a cluster of clear diamante' crystals encrusted in ...
$7,490
H 5.5 in W 11.5 in D 2.5 in
FENDI Baguette Bag Hand-Embroidered Fringe Red Ivory Beaded Two-Way GHW 69435
By Fendi
Located in Costa Mesa, CA
Store item: 69435 A rare sight on our site is a Fendi baguette - but this one is worthy, with a shimmery hand-embroidered chevron beaded fringe in red and ivory beads, light beige e...
1980’s Carlos Falci Inlaid Leather and Shearling Swing Coat
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Toronto, Ontario
1980’s Carlos Falchi inlaid multi colour leather and shearling swing coat. This coat may have been custom made for the client or produced in a very limited edition as I have never se...
Carlos Falchi Printed Leather Slouch Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlos Falchi Printed Leather Slouch Bag with signature gathered flap. Super long cross body strap (which can be knotted to shorten) with fold over ...
Carlos Falchi Fatto A Mano 1cfty929 Brown Python Skin Leather Tote
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Dix hills, NY
Made In: U.S.A. Measurements: Length: 11.75" Width: 5" Height: 11" Shoulder Strap Drop: 8.75" Signs of Wear: Exterior shows some light scratches, fraying and scuff marks. Interi...
Carlo Falchi Deep Metallic Gold Calfskin Wallet and Notebook Holder
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Carlo Falchi deep metallic gold calfskin optional wallet or notebook holder has a 'snap' closure. The wallet measures 5 inches in height and 3 inc...
Carlos Falchi Black Python Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Product details: Black python clutch by Carlos Falchi. Purple suede interior. Interior zip pocket. Optional silver-tone chain-link shoulder strap. 14.5" l...
Carlos Falchi Grey Python Tote Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Product details: Grey python skin tote bag by Carlos Falchi. Interior pockets. Dual shoulder straps. 17" length, 15" height, 5.5" depth, 10" shoulder strap...
1980s Carlos Falchi Patchwork Tan Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Toronto, Ontario
1980s Carlos Falchi tan and brown patchwork rectangular clutch. Envelope style with flap front with gold snap closure. Brown leather interior with single interior slip pocket with zi...
Carlos Falchi Black Snakeskin Clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New York, NY
Product details: Black snakeskin clutch by Carlos Falchi. Silver-tone hardware. Interior zip pocket. Detachable chain-link shoulder strap. Magne...
CARLOS FALCHI c.1990’s Brown Embossed Leather Patch Detail Flap Shoulder Bag
By Carlos Falchi
Located in Thiensville, WI
CARLOS FALCHI c.1990’s Brown Embossed Leather Patch Detail Flap Shoulder Bag Circa: 1990’s Style: Flap shoulder bag Color(s): Shades of brown Lined: Yes Unmarked Fabric Content (f...
Vintage Carlos Falchi Black Buffalo Leather Shoulder Bag or Crossbody Purse
By Carlos Falchi
Located in San Diego, CA
Chic and classic signature CARLOS FALCHI black buffalo leather shoulder bag or crossbody messenger bag! The strap is long enough to function as either. Buffalo leather is one of the ...
1970's CARLOS FALCHI peach patchwork reptile skin leather clutch
By Carlos Falchi
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Vivid peach patchwork clutch made of reptile skins designed by Carlos Falchi. Cleverly pieced so that pattern symmetrically matches on body of bag and flap. Bag measures approximatel...
Carlos Falchi Black Leather Gloves with Bow Decoration Never Worn
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New Hope, PA
These butter soft black leather gloves designed by Carlos Falchi have a wonderful leather bow and knot at the wrist. They are lined in black silk and marked a size 7. Never worn, the...
Carlos Falchi Red Leather Gloves with Bow Decoration Never Worn
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New Hope, PA
These butter soft red leather gloves designed by Carlos Falchi have a wonderful leather bow and knot at the wrist. They are lined in red silk and ma...
Carlos Falchi Black leather and Snakeskin Gloves Never Worn
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New Hope, PA
These super soft black leather Carlos Falchi gloves have a wide band of black snakeskin at the wrist. They are lined in black silk and marked a size 7. They have never been worn and ...
Carlos Falchi British Racing Green Leather Gloves with Bow Decoration Never Worn
By Carlos Falchi
Located in New Hope, PA
These butter soft deep green leather gloves designed by Carlos Falchi have a wonderful leather bow and knot at the wrist. They are lined in black s...