Christian Dior Handbags and Purses

Today, vintage Dior handbags, totes, shoulder bags and clutches are known for the feminine sensibility and sophistication that has long been associated with the brand. Art dealer turned designer Christian Dior founded his fashion house in Paris in 1946. His haute couture New Look collection expressed glamorous optimism after World War II, and the brand gained wide popularity for its luxurious, lavishly full garments.

The most popular signature Dior bag is the Lady Dior, which was designed by the house's then-artistic director Gianfranco Ferré (prior to its 1995 debut, it was called the Chouchou). With its rigid structure and arched top handle, the Lady Dior handbag soared to immense popularity after French first lady Bernadette Chirac gave a version in black leather to Princess Diana. (Also a fan of simple black dresses designed by Versace, the Princess of Wales became a fashion icon early on, and she remained one until the end.)

Each Lady Dior bag is made from 130 pieces of leather and worked on by seven Dior craftsmen who spend at least eight hours perfecting it. The design takes its cues from house codes — the metal charms are inspired by the lucky charms treasured by the superstitious Monsieur Dior, and the signature quilting is based on the Napoleon III-style chairs guests sat on during Dior fashion shows.

A limited-edition version of the Lady Dior bag was issued as part of the 2019 Dioriviera cruise collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri. It featured a 1947 house of Dior toile de Jouy print with subtle beading.

The Lady Dior is available in various colors, sizes and leathers. Dior bags are known for their intricate, cannage quilting style and often include a dangling, leather-backed charm with the brand’s letters.

Some of the best known Dior bags include the Saddle, which was created by John Galliano, an audacious British designer who has garnered universal acclaim for genre-breaking collections not only at his eponymous label but also for Dior. Other favorites include 30 Montaigne and Book tote, both of which were designed by Chiuri.

When Dior launched his couture house, 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.

Find exquisite vintage Dior handbags for sale on 1stDibs.

Vintage Handbags and Designer Purses for Sale on 1stDibs

An integral part of fashion, handbags and purses have been indispensable accessories ever since we began to carry around personal items. Level of craftsmanship, style and shape matters — from coin purses in ancient Greece to early 20th-century opera bags and onward, handbags have evolved considerably over the years to meet our needs and desires, whether or not you happen to be prioritizing functionality over a flashy exterior.

Once, a single “It” handbag ruled each fashion season. No more. Today, handbag lovers are savvier and have a wider range of shopping options. Nevertheless, classic bags still rule.

“It is not a fashion bag — it is a statement bag,” says Mightychic's Debra Kent of Hermès's widely beloved accessories. “When you carry an iconic Hermès bag — Birkin, Kelly, Constance — no one knows how long you have been into this culture or if you are a newbie. Your status is validated immediately.”

First released in 1997, Fendi's Baguette rose to fame along with Carrie Bradshaw, the Sex and the City character portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker. Recently, the design has seen such a resurgence in popularity that Fendi has reissued it.

They are part of design history, so owning a handbag has meaning. As New York–based fashion historian Sarah C. Byrd says, “You have made the choice to invest in this piece because you understand the value of it in the past and in the future to come.”

From a 1980s Chanel black leather quilted mini buckle bag to the rare Hermès Birkin 30cm Himalayan with diamond hardware to a range of 19th century bags, find a rich variety of vintage and designer handbags and purses spanning numerous brands on 1stDibs — seasonal “It” designation no longer needed.

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Questions About Christian Dior Handbags and Purses

Do Dior shoes run small?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Dior shoes tend to run narrow. It is often recommended to purchase a size up, especially if you don’t have narrow feet to begin with. Find a collection of vintage and contemporary Christian Dior shoes from a variety of top sellers around the world on 1stDibs.
How do I clean Dior sneakers?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
How to best clean Dior sneakers varies based on the material. Using a cleaning product designed for whatever your sneakers are made of can help you avoid damaging leather or suede. Generally, you can wipe surface dirt off all Dior sneakers with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Dior sneakers.
How do I attach a strap to a Dior saddle bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To attach a branded canvas strap to a Dior saddle bag, use the spring-mounted lobster clasps located at each end. Simply pull back on the finger knob to open the fastener and slip the clasp onto one of the metal rings located on the top of the bag. Let go to close the fastener. Repeat on the other side, and you're ready to carry your bag with your new strap. Find a collection of Dior saddle bags on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate Dior jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Hallmarks can help you authenticate Dior jewelry. Typically, Dior stamps its hallmarks on the fasteners of their jewelry. Pieces made in the 1950s often include the names of the designers Kramer or Mitchel Maer. Pieces from this period may also say "Dior West Germany" or "Made in Germany for Christian Dior." During the 1960s and 70s, the hallmark became "Chr.Dior." Since the 1980s, the brand's hallmark reads "Christian Dior" along with a copyright symbol and the manufacturing year. You may also find "Made in France" on modern hallmarks. Shop a large selection of expertly vetted Dior jewelry on 1stDibs.
How can I tell if a Dior bag is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
There are several signs to look for to tell whether your Dior bag is authentic or fake. Check the handles to make sure they’re sturdy and don’t bend. The leather used for inner implements should be an exact match to the leather used on the outside of the bag. Check for any signs of sloppy workmanship in the stitching, hardware or in the shape of the bag. Authentic Dior bags will always retain their shape, even if they’re vintage. Date code tags should be rectangular with rounded edges. Keep in mind that Dior stopped making their handbags in France in 1990, so a newer bag with a “Made in France” stamp is another warning sign. While Christian Dior has inspired knockoffs, 1stDibs partners with only top-vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee.
How do I tie a scarf on a Lady Dior bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To tie a scarf on a Lady Dior bag, knot one end on one side of the arched handle. Position the short end of the scarf so that it faces straight down. Then, carefully wrap the long end of the scarf around the handle, working from one side to the other. Stop occasionally to reposition the short end to keep the tip facing downward. Once the scarf completely covers the handle, knot the other end. Shop a large selection of Lady Dior bags on 1stDibs.
How do I know if Dior sunglasses are real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can check a few features to know if Dior sunglasses are likely real. All Dior sunglasses show a brand name stamp along the inner temple. The stamp should be in the correct font and may say "Dior" or "Christian Dior." On newer styles, a serial number or style number appears beside the brand name. Length of the numbers varies, but the printing will always consist of a mix of capital letters and numbers. Newer eyewear designs also display the model number, frame size and temple length on the inner temple tip. Shop a large selection of expertly vetted Dior sunglasses on 1stDibs.
How do I read a Dior date stamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The last four digits on a Dior date stamp indicate the month and year. The first and third digits represent the months, while the second and fourth digits represent the year. For example, if your date code ends with 1109, then that would mean the time of manufacture was October 2019. This is the same code system used by Louis Vuitton.
How can I wear a Dior scarf?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can wear a Dior scarf many ways, and how you choose to style it is largely a matter of personal preference. Try folding the scarf into a triangle and tying it in a single knot, or knot it into a symmetrical bow at your throat and allow the ends to hang loosely. Dior scarves also work well as bag accessories, headbands and kerchiefs. You’ll find a large selection of Dior scarves on 1stDibs.
How can I wear a Dior Mitzah?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can wear a Dior Mitzah in many ways. Wrap the long, narrow strip of fabric around your neck and tie it in a bow like a scarf, or coil it around the handles of your Dior handbag. The dimensions of the scarf also allow it to function as a headband or a wrist wrap. Shop a large selection of Dior scarves on 1stDibs.
How do I read the date code on Lady Dior products?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The last four digits on a Lady Dior date code indicate the month and year. The first and third digits represent the month, while the second and fourth digits represent the year. For example, if your date code ends with 1128, that would mean the time of manufacture was December 2018. This is the same code system used by Louis Vuitton.
How can I wear a Dior belt bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can wear a versatile Dior belt bag many different ways. The most traditional position is around your waist. If you wish, you can pull the belt through loops on your jeans, pants or skirts. Another option is to sling the belt lower so that the bag hangs just below your hips. Shop a range of Dior belt bags on 1stDibs.
When did Christian Dior start designing?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
After seven years as an art dealer, Christian Dior retrained as a fashion illustrator, eventually landing a job as a fashion designer for French fashion designer Robert Piguet. In 1941, following a year of military service, Dior joined the fashion house of Lucien Lelong. Five years later, he was able to open a fashion house of his own at 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris. At 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of vintage and modern Christian Dior clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques.
Is Dior a public company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Dior is a publicly traded company. Its full name is Christian Dior SE. The stock trades on the Euronext 100 market under the initials "CDI." The largest shareholder and primary owner of the company is the French corporation LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. You’ll find a large selection of Dior on 1stDibs.
Is the Dior saddle bag a classic?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
No, the Dior saddle bag is generally not considered a classic bag. It debuted in 1999 in the Spring/Summer 2000 collection designed by John Galliano. Because of its introduction year, the saddle bag isn't a vintage style and is usually thought of as a modern design. Shop a range of Dior saddle bags on 1stDibs.
Are Dior sunglasses polarized?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, some Dior sunglasses are polarized. Designs vary from year to year, but generally at least a few in every season's collection feature polarized lenses. The Dior EverDior aviator sunglasses are one example of a signature style that often offers polarized lenses as an option. You’ll find a large selection of Dior sunglasses on 1stDibs.
How do Dior Oblique shoes fit?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Dior Oblique shoes tend to fit true to size. Check the brand’s website for exact shoe measurements to ensure a proper fit. Shop a wide variety of Dior Oblique collections from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Are Dior shoes true to size?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
No, Dior shoes usually are not true to size, although sizing differences vary by shoe style. Depending on which shoe you buy, you may need to purchase one-half to one full size up from what you normally wear. Dior’s website offers an official size chart to help you select the right size. Explore a large selection of Dior shoes on 1stDibs.
Who sells Dior eyeglasses?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A new pair of Dior eyeglasses are available from Dior directly as well as through multiple retailers. For physical store locations, consult the brand’s website. Shop a collection of vintage Christian Dior eyeglasses from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Who makes Dior sunglasses?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
As of 2021, Dior eyewear is manufactured by Thélios, an Italian company owned by Dior’s parent company LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton. The change happened after the 23-year long license deal with the eyewear company Safilo expired in 2020. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Dior eyewear from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.