You might not expect chain-mesh bags to predate sliced bread by three decades, but it’s true. The very first mesh purse was created by Charles Whiting (1864–1940) in 1892 while working for the jewelry manufacturer Wade Davis & Company in Plainville, Massachusetts. Whiting joined the company at the age of 16, and by 1896 he formed a partnership to purchase it, renaming it the Whiting & Davis Company.
While the original Whiting & Davis mesh purse was made entirely by hand — artisans hammered out the links and wove them together — the company developed a machine to automate fabrication in 1912. With the ability to produce more rapidly and prolifically, Whiting & Davis became a veritable mesh empire, creating handbags and purses in all shapes, styles and colors, including ones made from precious metals, painted with Art Deco designs and silk-screened with Impressionistic images. The purses became status icons for the stylish elite, particularly with the flappers of the 1920s.
Over the years, Whiting & Davis struck up partnerships with some of the most talented designers of the time, including Paul Poiret, Elsa Schiaparelli and Elsa Peretti, who used their mesh in elegant pieces for Tiffany & Co., propelling their popularity even further. After a brief hiatus during World War II, when Whiting & Davis produced radar equipment rather than handbags, the brand continued to develop an ever-expanding line of products that included clothing.
In the 1970s, Whiting & Davis accessories and clothing were the rage of the disco scene. By the early 2000s, everyone from Paris Hilton to Lady Gaga donned the brand’s mesh handbags.
Recent innovations to their offerings include color mesh and fine mesh, with the brand refocusing on fashion jewelry with the launch of a new collection in 2013 featuring a revamped vintage snake-bracelet design. The company has been based in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, since 1995, also supplying its renowned chain mesh for industrial uses like work gloves and protective applications such as shark suits for divers.
Find vintage Whiting & Davis mesh handbags, necklaces and other accessories on 1stDibs.
Whiting & Davis Black Mesh Evening Bag with Orange Bakelite Handle
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Morongo Valley, CA
Vintage Whiting & Davis evening bag with black metal mesh body, structured tortoiseshell-tone frame and orange Bakelite top handle. Gold-tone kiss-lock clasp closure. Classic tr...
Whiting & Davis White Alumesh Purse, Circa 1940s
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage Whiting & Davis cream alumesh purse. enamel painted metal, gold metal frame, kiss lock closure, thick snake coil handle, navy blue silk faille lining. 👛 A wonderful piece o...
Whiting and Davis 1980s Gold Metal Chainmail Vintage Metallic 80s Belt
By Whiting & Davis
Located in San Diego, CA
Chic early 80s vintage WHITING & DAVIS gold chain mail metal belt ! Features signature chainmail in a bright metallic gold. Large gold buckle. Really makes any outfit complete. Great...
Whiting & Davis Figural Face Flower Frame Mesh Chainmail Gold Purse Evening Bag
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Miami Beach, FL
Rare vintage Whiting & Davis Co. gold mesh chainmail purse with frame that features a centralized face among leaves and flowers. It has a gold chain t...
Whiting & Davis Silver Mesh Evening Bag with Chain Handle
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Morongo Valley, CA
Vintage Whiting & Davis evening bag crafted in silver-tone metal mesh with structured frame. Features matching chain handle and kiss-lock clasp closure. Classic trapezoid silhou...
Vintage late 1970s Gold Chain Mail Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Blouse UK 14 US 10
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Nashville, TN
This glamorous 1980's Whiting & Davis gold mesh blouse, is the perfect statement piece of fashion history for your cocktail wardrobe. The angular square...
Whiting & Davis Gold-Tone Chainmail Metal Clutch Bag With Chain circa 1960s
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This stunning Gold-Tone Chainmail Metal Clutch Bag With Chain circa 1960s is a captivating accessory that embodies the glamour and sophistication of the mid-20th century. Crafted fro...
1970's Whiting & Davis Mesh Scarf Style Necklace
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Toronto, Ontario
1970's Whiting and Davis classic metal mesh triangular necklace/scarf in an unusual combination of green on gilt metal. More often this piece is found in silver or gilt metal. It is ...
$518Sale Price|40% Off
Whiting & Davis Halter Top Vintage Silver-Tone Chainmail 1990s
By Whiting & Davis
Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL
Do you want to shine? This very RARE and exceptional 1990s Vintage silver-tone chainmail Halter Top by Whiting & Davis made in USA, is a one o...
Whiting & Davis Silver Hardware Link 'Snake" with Red Eyes Accent Chain Belt
By Whiting & Davis
Located in New York, NY
Whiting & Davis silver hardware link "Snake" with red eyes accent chain belt measures 38" in length.
Avant Garde 1980s Whiting & Davis Red Black Silver Chainmail Metal 80s Mesh Top
By Whiting & Davis
Located in San Diego, CA
Avant Garde vintage late 80s WHITING & DAVIS red, black and silver disco chainmail metal mesh top / blouse! I have had quite a few W&D pieces over the years, but I have never seen on...
Whiting & Davis silver mesh clutch with matching change purse
By Whiting & Davis
Located in New York, NY
Whiting & Davis silver mesh evening clutch has detailed rhinestone clasp closure. The evening clutch comes with a matching silver mesh change purse. Both items have the signature "Wh...
Whiting & Davis Black Floral Print Metal Mesh Shoulder Bag W/ Black Leather Trim
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Gresham, OR
Whiting & Davis metal mesh shoulder bag in a stylized floral pattern in black, red, blue, green and yellow with black leather trim. A wonderful examp...
1990s Whiting & Davis Aubergine toOrchid Ombre Chainmail Halter Cowl Top
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Gresham, OR
A stunning 1990s Whiting & Davis aubergine to black ombre chainmail halter top: A deeply draped cowl neckline, black mesh base with thin black lea...
Vintage Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Halter Top, Evening Bag and Headband 3pc Set
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Port Saint Lucie, FL
This rare three-piece vintage Whiting & Davis ensemble showcases the brand’s iconic craftsmanship in shimmering gold metal mesh. Dating to the late 1970s or early 1980s, the set ...
Whiting & Davis Ivory Enamel Mesh Handbag w Bakelite Chain and Frame, 1940s
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Tucson, AZ
An eye-catching alternative to the traditional gold and silver metal mesh for which the company is famous, this rare enamel plated mesh version also features a unique Bakelite top fr...
Vintage Whiting and Davis Chainmail Crossbody Handbag
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Super festive and fun vintage Whiting and Davis crossbody handbag! This is the perfect going out bag as the chainmail fabric is so special and eye catc...
Vintage 1960's Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Yin Yang buckle belt UK 8 US 4
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Nashville, TN
This truly iconic 1960's Whiting & Davis waist belt, with a central statement Yin and Yang buckle, framed to either side by a gold mesh belt, is the perfect stand out piece for your ...
Enamel Metal Mesh Neck Scarf, Whiting Davis
By Whiting & Davis
Located in New York, NY
Super versatile Enamel Metal Mesh Neck Scarf with abstract florals in blue tones likely by Whiting Davis. Liquid printed metal mesh, perfect to upgrade any outfit. 1980's USA. 56" x ...
Vintage Chainmail Cami Tank
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Flirty and festive vintage chainmail tank top in the most eye catching red, black and silver print. Featuring leather chord straps that tie which allow for versatility as you can adjust them to your desired fit. The center has a silver diamond shape breaking apart the red and black which is soo fun and reminiscent of the 1920s. The stand out element of this top is definitely the chainmail fabric, it's so heavy and luxurious and the way it drapes on the body is so flattering and slinky. This is going to be your new favorite going out top! Let the fabric have it's own moment and pair this with your go to leather Prada jeans and a black Manolo heel...
Whiting & Davis Silver Chainmail Clutch
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Adorable vintage Whiting & Davis silver chainmail clutch! Complete your going out look effortlessly with this timeless and versatile chainmail clutch. Features a gorgeous rhinestone-...
Whiting & Davis Gold Tone Chain Mail Crossbody Bag
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate your style with the Whiting & Davis Gold Tone Chain Mail Crossbody Bag, a timeless and glamorous accessory that exudes vintage-inspired charm. Crafted from stunning gold-tone...
New Kate Spade Her Rare Large Collectible Spring 2005 Green Wicker Basket Bag
Located in Conroe, TX
Kate Spade Wicker Bag Very Rare From Her Spring 2005 Collection DESIGNED BY KATE SPADE This is the last collection before she sold her brand to Neiman Marcus Impossible to Find Bran...
$297Sale Price|40% Off
New Fendi Gold Aviator Wrap Sunglasses with Case
By Fendi
Located in Conroe, TX
New Fendi Gold Aviator Wrap Sunglasses with Case Brand New Gold & Brown Wrap Sunglasses Faux Leather Accents Lightweight Scratch and Impact Resistant ...
$1,395Sale Price|40% Off
Size: Italian Size 40
New Tom Ford For Gucci 2004 Final Collection Silk Runway Pants IT 40 (S)
By Gucci
Located in Conroe, TX
Rare Runway Silk Gucci Pants Brand New w/ Tags $2350 Worn by most of the models for the Spring/Summer 2004 Collection Tom Ford's "Farewell" Spring Collection for Gucci Blush Silk Pa...
Gianni Versace Silk Floral Motif Print Blouse
By Gianni Versace
Located in Oakland, CA
Vintage Gianni Versace silk blouse. Cream with pale pink flowers, silver metallic speckles with gold, green, black, red and lavend...
HERMES c.1980's Burgundy Lizard Skin Leather Equestrian Ring Belt Gold Hardware
By ERIC BERGERE, Hermès
Located in Thiensville, WI
Hermes c.1980's Burgundy Lizard Skin Leather Equestrian Ring Belt Gold Hardware Brand / Manufacturer: Hermes Designer: Eric Bergere Circa: 1980's Sty...
JOHN GALLIANO Top - ivory tablier in silk chiffon from the FW 2005 season.
By John Galliano
Located in Milano, IT
Ivory "Show" top - tablier in 100% silk chiffon by John Galliano from the Ready to Wear Fall Winter 2005 collection. The neckline at the front is decorated with a flat vertical curle...
1990s Gianni Versace Double Chain Black Medusa Greek Key Gold Belt
By Gianni Versace
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting a beautiful gold-tone Gianni Versace chain link belt designed by Gianni Versace. From the 1990s, this incredible belt features a Greek key link broken up black Versace Medusa...
$1,995Sale Price|57% Off
Size: FR42
New Yves Saint Laurent YSL F/W 2008 Naomi Campbell Quilted Coat Dress Sz Fr42
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Conroe, TX
Yves Saint Laurent Brand New Featured in the Naomi Campbell Ad $4650 F/W Runway 2008 Heavy Coat/Dress Size: FR42 100% Heavy Virgin Wool & Silk Black Quilting Throughout Dual Zip...
S/S 1988 Gianni Versace Ad Oversized Rhinestone Black Ribbed Satin Black Leather
By Gianni Versace
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting a stunning black wide Gianni Versace belt, designed by Gianni Versace. From the Spring/Summer 1988 collection, this beautiful cloth belt features a ribbed fabric at the st...
$10,920
H 3.25 in W 4.5 in D 4 in
Chanel Vanity Case Micro Mini 90s Vintage Iridescent Bronze Rare Patent Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel Micro Mini 90s Vintage Patent Metallic Bronze Iridescent Vanity Case Rare 1994 [VINTAGE 30 Years} Diamond stitch iridescent patent leather Cl...
Bottega Veneta Multicolored Short Sleeves Blouse Top, Size 38
By Bottega Veneta
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Product details: The top features abstract patter print with asymmetric fit design.
$9,920
H 6 in W 10 in L 4.5 in
Chanel 2013 Cruise Iridescent Caviar Kelly Top Handle Crossbody Classic Flap Bag
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel 2013 Cruise Iridescent Caviar Kelly Top Handle Crossbody Classic Flap Bag 2013 Cruise Collection Gold Matte Hardware Flap CC Turnlock Closure Interior zippered pocket Two add...
Vintage 1930's Whiting & Davis Mesh handbag original 1930's mesh evening bag
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Nashville, TN
This truly iconic 1930's Whiting & Davis gold mesh evening bag, is a true piece of fashion accessory history. The wonderful gold toned metal frame is accented by swirling filigree de...
Vintage 1970's silver Whiting & Davis silver mesh halter neck blouse UK 6-10
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Nashville, TN
This truly iconic late 1970's Whiting & Davis silver mesh halter neck blouse, is the perfect statement piece of fashion history for your cocktail wardrobe. The Halter neck cut of t...
Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Clutch
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Brooklyn, NY
vintage Whiting & Davis mesh clutch beautiful gold mesh metal pretty art deco style rhinestone clasp small interior pockets peach silk lining comes in it's original box excellent con...
Whiting & Davis Antique Art Deco Enameled Metal Mesh Purse, Documented, 1920s
By Whiting & Davis
Located in North Attleboro, MA
This wonderful Whiting & Davis metal mesh bag, circa 1920s, is a stunning piece of fashion history. The purse is comprised of colorful enameled armor mesh with a unique enameled frame. The front side of the frame is accented with delicate pink flowers against an ombre green background. The body of the mesh purse features black, indigo, yellow, orange, pink white and green enamel in a geometric design. The bag has the classic Whiting & Davis 1920s profile of a rectangular shape, slightly flared out at the bottom, with the "vandyke" bottom skirt design (a repeating half-diamond or V shape). The inside of the frame is stamped with the Whiting & Davis logo. Kiss lock closure. Metal figure-eight-link 13" chain. Documented in "Whiting & Davis Purses, The Perfect Mesh", Leslie Pina and Donald-Brian Johnson, 2002, pg 52, top left image. Measures approximately 5.5"x4.5". Enamel in excellent condition. One link pulled away at one corner of the frame. Tarnishing commensurate with age. Very much useable for wear or perfect for the collector display.
Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Wallet with Change Purse
By Whiting & Davis
Located in London, GB
Lovely Whiting & Davis gold mesh wallet with change purse. Measuring length 20.4 cm / 8 inches by width 7.6 cm / 3 inches, and with a strap drop of 7.6 cm / 3 inches. Inside there is...
Whiting & Davis Gold Chainmail Clutch
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Adorable vintage Whiting & Davis gold chainmail clutch! Complete your going out look effortlessly with this timeless and versatile chainmail clutch. Features a gorgeous rhinestone-en...
Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Chain Mail Fringe Handbag, 1960's
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Atlanta, GA
This 1960's mod evening gold mesh handbag by Whiting & Davis will take you from deco to disco! Whiting & Davis has been producing fashionable handbags since the late 1800’s and thei...
Vintage Whiting & Davis Gold Chain Mail Mesh Halter Top
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Atlanta, GA
Get the midas touch with a vintage Whiting & Davis gold chain mail mesh halter top with gold leather ties. The mesh 'fabric' is Whiting & Davis' sign...
1980s Whiting and Davis Gold Mesh Evening Bag
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Fabulous Whiting and Davis mini bag from the 1980s. The iconic Whiting and Davis gold metal mesh with gold leather. Envelope style with a magnetic snap button closure. The long gold ...
Whiting & Davis Gold Metal Mesh Embellished Cream Jersey Dress
By Whiting & Davis
Located in New Hope, PA
A glamourous cream jersey evening dress from the late 1980's is embellished with Whiting & Davis gold toned metal mesh at the neckline, both front and back. The shoulder straps tie ...
1980S WHITING & DAVIS Gold Metallic Chainmail Metal Mesh Skirt Top Ensemble
By Whiting & Davis
Located in New York, NY
1980S WHITING & DAVIS Gold Metallic Chainmail Metal Mesh Skirt Top Ensemble
1990s Whiting & Davis Pink To Blue Ombre Chainmail Halter Cowl Top
By Whiting & Davis
Located in Gresham, OR
A stunning 1990s Whiting & Davis pink/blue ombre chainmail halter top: A deeply draped cowl neckline, silver-toned base metal with thin silver lea...