When it comes to handbags, no designer can compete with Judith Leiber’s ability to create magic using opulent crystals and wildly imaginative and playful shapes. The Hungarian-born designer's lauded vintage minaudières (small, decorative handbags, often without handles or a strap) were made in the form of crystal-covered swans, cupcakes, lipstick, wads of cash, teddy bears and other delightful objects.
These dazzling objets d’art have been regularly seen in the hands of First Ladies, movie stars on the red carpet and even in the prestigious collections of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And like many pathbreaking inventions in the history of design, Leiber's purses and minaudières were the result of a happy accident.
In 1967, Leiber began working on her first metal handbag. The piece in question was named the Chatelaine, and the design was a graceful drop-shaped purse in gold-tinted metal. But when the samples came in, Leiber saw that the bottom of the bag looked greenish and discolored as a result of the plating process. She had the ingenious idea of applying crystal rhinestones to the base to cover up the flaws. The fabulous bag was a huge success and would become her trademark.
Born Judith Peto in Budapest, Leiber overcame many hardships before her breakthrough. At the start of World War II, she was working at the Pessl handbag company in Budapest where she quickly climbed the ranks to become a master craftswoman. When the war escalated, she and her Jewish family were forced by the Nazis to live in a cellar of a ghetto, and several of her relatives were killed in concentration camps.
“I designed handbags in my head to get through the misery,” Leiber said.
After the liberation of Budapest, she married Gerson “Gus” Leiber, an American GI, and moved to New York. In 1948, she began working for the fashion house Nettie Rosenstein. One of Leiber's first major pieces was the handbag embroidered with glittering rhinestones and pearls carried by Mamie Eisenhower at the 1953 inaugural ball. In 1963, she finally set up her own company.
Leiber’s whimsical designs embellished with Swarovski crystals and semiprecious stones defied traditional notions of luxury handbags. She also created striking clutches and bags with leather and fine textiles from around the world. In her 65-year career, she designed over 3,500 bags, which have been worn by First Ladies including Nancy Reagan and Laura Bush, pop icons like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez and celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner (who collects Judith Leiber bags).
In 2005, the Leiber Collection Museum opened in East Hampton, New York, as a permanent space to showcase her work. The minaudières remain coveted objects that are celebrated worldwide for their eclectic beauty and glamorous charm.
The value of a good handbag cannot be overstated — find vintage Judith Leiber shoulder bags, crossbody bags, sunglasses and other fashion accessories today on 1stDibs.
Judith Leiber Iridescent White Evening Clutch with Chain, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Classic Judith Leiber pouch style evening bag in simulated lizard in gold tone circa 1980s. Ruffles top with rhinestone encrusted kiss lock. Detachable hidden shoulder chain. Comes w...
Judith Leiber Silver Snakeskin Deco Motif Evening Clutch Bag, 2000s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
From the renowned handbag designer - Judith Leiber's stunning silver snakeskin evening bag. With intricate semi-precious stones and rhinestone deco detailing, this clutch is perfect ...
Judith Leiber brown Calf Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Chic, minimalist calf bag by Judith Leiber. Tubular calf leather handles with gilt corner mounts (slightly worn).
Center snap closure compartment with ...
$3,552Sale Price|20% Off
JUDITH LEIBER Limited Edition strawberry cupcake Say Yes minaudiere clutch bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Hong Kong, NT
JUDITH LEIBER Limited Edition pink gold strawberry cupcake crystal Say Yes minaudiere clutch bag Reference: SNKO/A00614 Brand: Judith Leiber Collection: Limited Edition Material: Met...
Judith Leiber Vintage Silk Crystals Flap 2-Way Clutch Shoulder Tassel Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
The ultimate in handbag making luxury craftsmanship. The Iconic House of Judith Leiber always provides us with timeless and classic pieces. This beautiful bag takes timeless creation...
Vintage Judith Leiber Python Snakeskin Nude Tan Jeweled Shoulder Bag or Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in San Diego, CA
Stunning vintage JUDITH LEIBER nude python shoulder bag or clutch and matching tasseled comb (can even be worn as a crossbody)! Signature Lieber silhouette that snaps shut to keep ev...
Judith Leiber Opulent Jeweled Large Scale Gilt Metal Butterfly Belt c 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
Judith Leiber Opulent crystal encrusted large scale gilt metal butterfly belt c 1980s The massive gilt metal butterfly buckle is embellished with rows of intricate diamante crystals ...
Judith Leiber White Karung Snake Jeweled Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Ivory Karung Snake Jeweled Clutch. This beautiful vintage bag by Judith Leiber is the perfect addition to any outfit. The bag features gold ...
$2,080Sale Price|20% Off
Judith Leiber White Crystal Gold Disco Ball Minaudières Evening Bag with Tassel
By Judith Leiber
Located in Miami Beach, FL
RARE Judith Leiber white crystal sphere minaudières shoulder bag in excellent vintage condition. White Swarovski crystal exterior trimmed with gold edges and clear crystals along top...
Judith Leiber Snakeskin and Rose Quartz Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Judith Leiber Snakeskin and Rose Quartz Bag with pastes. Judith Leiber often went to vintage markets to buy antique frames and remount them. This one dates from the 1930's and is set with pastes and rose quartz navette...
Vintage Judith Leiber Red & Gold Obi Silk Convertible Clutch Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A regal creation from the legendary Judith Leiber, this vintage evening bag is crafted from exquisite Japanese obi silk—an opulent textile traditionally used in ceremonial kimonos. ...
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Egg Minaudiere Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Leiber's crystal minaudières, known for their whimsical and fanciful forms (like eggs, animals, and food), are considered works of art. They are displayed in permanent collections at...
Judith Leiber Crystal Cat Minaudière Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Krakow, PL
This is a collectible Judith Leiber minaudière, a whimsical cat-shaped clutch fully covered in shimmering, hand-set crystals. The silver-tone hardware adds a touch of elegance. The...
Rare Vintage Judith Leiber Crystal Chantelaine Minaudiere Production Sample
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Rare Vintage Judith Leiber Crystal Chantelaine Minaudiere in excellent condition. Gold coin purse shape body with black crystals along the top edge and...
JUDITH LEIBER Black Satin Evening Bag with Jet Black Rhinestones
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Judith Leiber black satin evening bag with jet black rhinestones. This evening bag is in 'LIKE NEW' condition. There are no significant flaws or wear areas to consider with this love...
Judith Leiber Black Reptile Deco Evening Convertible Evening Bag, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Expertly designed by renowned handbag designer Judith Leiber, this 80s black reptile deco evening bag exudes elegance with its unique styling. The hidden removable leather strap allo...
Judith Leiber Gold Kid Asian Inspired Novelty Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Charming Judith Leiber Gold Kid Asian style purse from the 1980's. Designed as an incense pot or hand warmer in gilt metal with gold leather body and trim. Retailed by Saks Fifth Ave...
Judith Leiber Black Patent Leather Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Patent Leather Clutch in good vintage condition. Black patent leather in unique diagonal pleated design along front side trimmed with gold hardware. Black enamel ...
JUDITH LEIBER Green Lizard Skin Wallet with Gold Clasp
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Judith Leiber green lizard skin wallet with gold metal clasp. This wallet is in 'LIKE NEW' condition. There are no significant flaws or wear areas to consider with this lovely wallet...
Judith Leiber Beige Python with Tiger's Eye and Garnet Stones Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Judith Leiber's wonderfully detailed beige python evening clutch has the optional use of a evening shoulder bag with their removable straps of python and gold hardware. Th...
Judith Leiber Clear Swarovski Crystal Flower Top Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
TIMELESS Judith Leiber Clear Swarovski Crystal Flower Top Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch in excellent condition. Clear Swarovski crystal exter...
Judith Leiber Gilt Metal Equine Buckle Embossed Blue Leather Belt c 1980
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
JUDITH LEIBER Gilt metal equine buckle blue leather belt c 1980 The equestrian style belt is adorned with a stylized gold metal horse head buckle. The belt is designed with dark bl...
Judith Leiber Brown Leather Mini Compartment Bag with Coin Purse, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Tucson, AZ
Like Bonnie Cashin’s revolutionary “Cashin Carry” bags of the 1960s, this ingenious purse seems to defy physics with the amount of room it offers. Essentially a series of expandable accordion files with multiple pockets and kiss locks to keep contents secure, it eliminates the need for a wallet. Moreover, the heavyweight gold chain handle looks like a piece of fine jewelry and is long enough to be worn on the shoulder. Chocolate brown shoulder bag...
Judith Leiber Vintage Mini Green Alligator Clutch Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Mini Green Alligator Clutch Minaudiere in excellent condition. Green alligator leather trimmed with gold hardware and a top button closure. Gold leather interio...
Vintage Judith Leiber Black Leather Wallet, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Slim dressy wallet by accessories queen Judith Leiber. Gathered flap on one side with mini frog accents. Can be worn dressy or casual. Additional information: Dimensions: Length: 7"...
Leiber Black Lizard Large Lizard Medallion Belt, 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Reptile-linked, oversized medallions with gold and silver-tone radiating medallions. Large, center medallions. Some gold tone loss on center piece. Good condition. Additional inform...
Vintage Judith Leiber Snakeskin Waist Belt With Pink Rhinestone Embellishments
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Celebrate the timeless elegance of the Vintage Judith Leiber Snakeskin Waist Belt, a stunning accessory that enhances any outfit. Crafted from luxurious yellow cream costume snakeski...
Judith Leiber Lizard Leather Evening Bag Handbag Clutch - Semi - Precious Stones
By Judith Leiber
Located in Wallkill, NY
Judith Leiber Evening Bag. Finely crafted from beige genuine lizard and tonal top stitching. Features multiple semi-precious stones including onyx, amethyst, jade, garnet, lapis, ros...
Judith Leiber Silver Minaudière Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Silver Minaudière Evening Bag Of elegant oval form, this minaudière is rendered in a luminous silver finish with silver-toned hardware and frame, crowned by a faux ony...
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Flower Motif Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elegance and glamor right this way! This is a highly designed handbag by none other than Judith Leiber that will be sure to catch people's attention from across the room. This is a BEAUTIFUL Judith Leiber flower...
Fine Judith Lieber Pearl and Crystal Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Pearl and Crystal Clutch A dazzling rectangular evening clutch by Judith Leiber, meticulously crafted with overlapping lappets of multi-colored faux pearls and crysta...
Judith Leiber Gold Metal Lion Head Buckle Expansion Belt
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber gold metal, lion head buckle, expansion belt. Gorgeous belt looks like it was barely, if ever, worn. Two rows of gold metal stretchy expansion bands. Stretches from 28-...
Judith Leiber Black Silk Velvet Polka Dot Crystal Top Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Silk Velvet Polka Dot Crystal Top Clutch in excellent condition. Black silk with purple pink and black velvet polka dot pattern trimmed with silver hardware and b...
JUDITH LEIBER Crystal Terrier Minaudiere Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in London, England
JUDITH LEIBER Crystal Terrier Minaudiere Clutch in Multicolor. This petite clutch is entirely covered in crystals with a hard silver shell, in the shape of an adorable dog. This clu...
$410Sale Price|28% Off
Judith Leiber Quilted Champagne Silk Bag with Faux Coral Clasp, 1980's
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
Highly unusual Judith Leiber champagne silk handbag with trapunto embroidery forming wavelike rows that give this piece an interesting quilted ...
Vintage Judith Leiber Tan Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Tan Lizard Clutch in excellent condition. Tan lizard exterior trimmed with gold hardware. Round tiger's eye and garnet glas...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Gemstone Top Shoulder Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Black Lizard Gemstone Shoulder Bag in excellent condition. Black lizard trimmed with gold hardware and multi colored gemstones along top edge. Unique middle eas...
Judith Leiber 1984 Bullfrog Miniaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Add this amazing piece to your collection! Circa 1980s, this Judith Leiber frog miniaudiere features multi color Jade, Amethyst and Onyx stones with...
Judith Leiber Resting Crane Bird Diamante Gold Trinket Pill Box
By Judith Leiber
Located in Montreal, QC
Beautiful Hard to Find Gold tone Judith Leiber Trinket Box fashioned after a Japanese 'Koro' or incense holder in the form of a Resting Crane; highlighted with sparkling CZ crystals ...
Judith Leiber Pink Swarovski Crystal Minaudière Clutch Evening Bag Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in Studio City, CA
A Judith Leiber pink minaudière evening purse entirely covered with pink Swarovski crystals. Features gold tone metal trim, a hinge-top opener/clasp and gold leather lined interior....
Judith Leiber Vintage Burgundy Snakeskin Gold Accent Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This exquisite Judith Leiber handbag showcases luxurious burgundy snakeskin with a structured, pleated design. Its gold-tone metal frame features an elegant twisted rope detail, comp...
Judith Leiber Gold Semi-Precious Stones Chain Belt, 1990s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Taking a page from her fantastic clutch purse designs, Judith Leiber’s creativity and love of color extend to her other accessories as well. Her accessories work to adorn the body, creating enough drama to be noticed but subdued enough to highlight the wearer. This gold chain belt can sit on the waist or lower at the hips and is decorated with two swags in the front and ovular semi-precious stones such as obsidian, tiger’s eye, quartz, and nephrite set throughout. The combination of gold and these pale colored stones provide a Byzantine feel. This belt is sure to be the perfect accent for a sleek evening design or a little black cocktail dress. Measurements: Length: 34 inches Width: 0.5 inches In excellent condition, the belt clasps...
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Alligator Clutch with Amethyst Gemstones c1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Alligator Clutch with Amethyst Gemstones c1980s in very good condition. Shiny black alligator leather exterior trimmed with gold hardware and a unique centered black resin emblem with 2 purple amethyst gemstones. Top lift latch closure opens to a black leather lined interior with one zip and one slit side pockets. Overall this piece is in very good vintage condition originally made c1980s. Clean corners and edges. Gentle signs of use inside with light scuffs throughout leather lining. Some fading on areas of gold hardware specifically on the top exterior closure hinge and engraved interior name plate. Please see photos for details. Attached leather shoulder strap easily converts between clutch and shoulder styles. Judith leiber is coveted by celebs and fashionistas worldwide for her exotic skin bags...
JUDITH LEIBER Gold & Silver Tone Rosette Clutch Optional Strap
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This Judith Leiber purse features a lovely floral pattern in white and gold rhinestone. There is a gold interior. In good vintage condition, there are some missing rhinestones and sl...
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Black Floral Box Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Beautiful Judith Leiber black floral box minaudiere in excellent condition. Multicolor swarovski crystal exterior in a floral design over a black backgro...
1980s Judith Leiber Beige and Gold Belt with Semi Precious Stones
By Judith Leiber
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
1980's opulent Judith Leiber snake leather and gold belt with semi precious stones. Known for her amazing purses, Judith Leiber’s creativity continued with accessories such as this b...
Judith Leiber Gold Swarovski Crystal Mini Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Gold Swarovski Crystal Mini Minaudiere in excellent condition. Gold swarovski crystals surrounding each exterior side trimmed with gold hardware and edges. Top push but...
Judith Lieber Black Minaudiere Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Black Minaudière Evening Bag A sophisticated rectangular minaudière by Judith Leiber, rendered in sleek black with silver-toned hardware. The bag features a refined sl...
Judith Leiber Shimmery Charcoal Suede Polka Dot Purse, 1990s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Shimmery, celestial polka dot suede (feels like velvet!) bag by Judith Leiber. Circa 1990s. A rare and wonderfully large sized bag from Leiber. Long straps for ease of movement. Gold...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Black Crystal Multi Color Gemstone Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Black Crystal Multi Color Gemstone Clutch in good condition. Black lizard exterior trimmed with gold hardware, black crystal...
Judith Leiber Gilt Equine Buckle Embossed White Leather Belt
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
Judith Leiber Gilt equine buckle embossed white leather belt c 1980 The designer belt is adorned with a stylized gilt metal horse head buckle. The adjustable white leather belt ha...
Judith Leiber Zahara Patchwork Python Snake Shoulder Bag Lapis Chain Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in Miami, FL
- Blue python exterior - Chain strap - Two interior pockets Condition: The bag is in overall great condition with no major imperfections it is missing crystal in the fro...
Judith Leiber Gilt Metal Dangling Charm Heavy Chain Belt c 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
Judith Leiber stylish gilt metal dangling charm heavy chain belt c 1980s The elegant belt is adorned with 10 dangling charms designed with a man's head, horse heads & orb fobs The d...
Judith Leiber Lion Buckle Black Embossed Leather Belt
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
Judith Leiber Ornate lion buckle black embossed leather belt c 1980 The elegant belt is adorned with a large stylized lion head buckle The lion's face is designed with smooth silve...
Judith Leiber Floral Châtelaine Minaudière Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship: the Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Embellished Clutch. This micro mini clutch is more than just an accessory; it's a true work o...
Judith Leiber Black Crystal Large Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Crystal Large Minaudiere in very good condition. Black swarovski crystal exterior trimmed with gold hardware in a unique large trapezoid shape. Top button closure...
Judith Leiber Pale Peach with Black Beaded Design Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber pale peach with black beaded design handbag or clutch. Matching change purse included. Handle drop 19".
1980s Judith Leiber Black Lizard Convertible Clutch Handbag w/ Obsidian Cameo
By Judith Leiber
Located in Gresham, OR
1980s Judith Leiber oval black lizard skin convertible clutch handbag with obsidian cameo clasp. Optional chain handle disappears into bag for clutch. Size...
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch in excellent condition. Red lizard leather trimmed with gold hardware. Double latch top closure opens to a red nylon ...
Judith Leiber Black Minaudiere Change Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Black Minaudiere Change Purse Signed. Shoulder-length gilt-toned chain. Width 3 in. Condition Report Good condition.