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Vintage Bonnie Cashin for Coach Mocha Brown Leather Sling Bag 1960s Rare Lining

About the Item

A wonderfully early example from Bonnie Cashin’s groundbreaking “Cashin Carry” era for Coach, this rare early 1960s sling bag captures the effortless utility and understated sophistication that defined Cashin’s revolutionary approach to American accessories design. Rendered in supple mocha brown cream-tanned cowhide, the silhouette is instantly recognizable for its sculptural sling-style top handle, designed to drape naturally over the forearm for hands-free ease decades before modern luxury embraced functional minimalism. Particularly special is the rare cotton madras plaid lining, an unusual and highly collectible detail seldom seen on surviving examples from this early Coach period. The front zipper pull is a "hair pin" style, another unique feature of Cashin's earlier bags. The warm, softly worn leather has developed a beautiful lived-in patina over time, giving the piece the soulful character collectors seek in authentic early Bonnie Cashin designs. The exterior features one front zip pocket with brass hardware and one rear slip pocket, while the interior includes an additional zip compartment for organization. Interior is stamped “CREAM TANNED COWHIDE” and tagged “BONNIE CASHIN DESIGN for COACH.” Note that image 2 shows an AI model for styling purposes. Measurements: 13 in. H (not including sling section) x 11.75 in. L x 1 in. D 7 in. sling drop Condition: Preowned/vintage with definite signs of age, use, and prior wear. Leather remains supple and structurally sound with attractive softness throughout; however, there is visible patina/color variation to the exterior leather, along with scars, spots, and stains consistent with age and use, most notable on the front zip pocket side. Light rubs and wear to the bottom corners, as well as patina to the brass hardware. The rare madras-lined interior is in overall good condition with scattered spots and marks, most only noticeable upon close inspection. Overall, this is a strong and highly wearable example of Bonnie Cashin’s early “Cashin Carry” collection for Coach in an increasingly difficult-to-find madras-lined variation, though it is not intended for a buyer seeking pristine vintage condition.

Designer:
Bonnie Cashin
Brand:
Bonnie Cashin for Coach Leatherware
Dimensions:
Height: 13 in (33.02 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)Length: 11.75 in (29.85 cm)
Style:
contemporary (In the Style Of)
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1960-1969
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Preowned/vintage 60+ years old. Leather is supple but shows patina/color variation/spots/rubs. Interior has light spots. Hardware has patina. See all images, read entire description. Image 2 shows an AI model for styling purposes.
Seller Location:
Port Saint Lucie, FL
Reference Number:
Seller: Bonnie Cashin for Coach Sling Bag Brown1stDibs: LU407229418012

Shop All Bonnie Cashin

Bonnie Cashin

The name Bonnie Cashin may not be as recognizable as those of other fashion greats, like Tom Ford, Donna Karan or Bill Blass, but few designers have made as profound an impact on American sportswear.

Born in 1907, Cashin began her career as a costume designer in the late 1920s, founding her own line, Bonnie Cashin Designs, in 1952. She created uniforms for American Airlines flight attendants and American servicewomen during World War II and collaborated with more than 35 brands, including Ballantyne and Hermès.

Perhaps best known for her work as lead designer at Coach from 1961 to 1974, Cashin also had a fruitful collaboration, from 1951 to 1977, with the leather manufacturer Sills. For Sills, she playfully mixed and matched materials in her work, and her exceptional coats and other outerwear dazzled with bold patterns an exaggerated sleeves.

Cashin created convertible garments using ingenious engineering and is even credited with the modern concept of layering, which won her a Neiman Marcus award in 1950. So, although her work might be a bit under the radar, those in the know covet Cashin treasures — collectors have evidently snapped up examples of a statement coat she designed for Sills during the late 1960s. The piece, which is made of a chunky mohair yarn woven in a vibrant lime-green-and-black oversize houndstooth pattern, is documented in Stephanie Lake’s 2016 monograph, Bonnie Cashin: Chic Is Where You Find It (Rizzoli).

Vintage Cashin pieces, which were informed by the designer’s global travels, have sparked fervent online discussions, with a growing community of enthusiasts sharing tips on sourcing and thoughtful restoration of her timeless works, particularly her Coach bags.

Indeed, fifty years after her departure, her contributions to Coach’s identity remain commercially successful and beloved by collectors. The brass turnlock, introduced by Cashin in 1961, is now a hallmark of the brand. And her clever antique-style metal kiss-lock clasps and inset coin-purse pockets were prominently featured in Coach’s New York Fashion Week presentation in 2024.

Nearly a quarter century after her death, in 2000, Cashin’s designs remain strikingly original. Ironically, a designer frequently overlooked in discussions of mid-century fashion is the visionary talent behind pieces that, once seen, are completely unforgettable.

Find vintage Bonnie Cashin bags and clothing for sale on 1stDibs.