Vintage Handbag

The evolution of the handbag over the centuries

It seems impossible to imagine an outfit for a woman without matching it with a beautiful handbag. However, before becoming a cultural and fashion icon, this item knew a very deep history that we are going to share with you. Its earliest versions were drawstring purses that were used by ancient civilizations to serve as practical carriers for coins or personal objects. They were small, crafted from leather or fabric and tied to belts as utilitarian bags.

Its construction became more elaborate during the Renaissance to reflect the status or the wealth of its wearer. Adorned with embroidery and more luxurious materials, handbags became both functional and decorative. But it was still a product that was reserved to the elite that could afford it and not yet a well spread accessory for women.

However, significant changes like the standardized production allowed handbags to evolve during the Industrial Revolution and its use started to touch all the levels of the society. Its design as we recognize it today really started to emerge in the early 20th century with a practical shape and adapted handles. Designers like Louis Vuitton and Hermès introduced durable appearances with structure that fitted perfectly the lifestyle of modern women, making it an essential accessory that symbolizes sophistication and practicality.

Later, in the mid-20th century, we saw models like the Chanel 2.55 or the Hermès Kelly that emerged, giving it what remains today its iconic position of signature accessory for fashion lovers. This is why today, vintage handbags keep embodying the craftsmanship and story of all these previous creators, becoming a great item for collectors or luxury enthusiasts like us.

More details about vintage handbags

What makes vintage handbags so appreciated is their capacity to blend utility with elegance. They often feature high-quality leather, such as full grain or calfskin, known for their smooth texture and durability. Some models can even be made with more exotic leathers like crocodile or python, while others are more luxurious oriented with velvet, suede or canvas. Vintage luxury handbags contain hardware elements like clasps, buckles and chain straps crafted from brass, gold or silver plating to enhance their style and make them last. Finally, logos, hand-stitched patterns and quilted surfaces are common things when it comes to the most prestigious brands. They reflect the work of the artisans and help identify the houses in seconds for every woman.

But we should not forget the structure and functionality of these accessories that include reinforced bases, sturdy handles and symmetrical silhouettes to add a touch of sophistication. This is why most handbags incorporate elements such as multiple compartments to help organize things with separate spaces for the phone, a wallet or make-up, for example. The closures are often secured with zippers, turn locks and magnetic clasps to ensure the safety of the belongings. Finally, we could not forget to mention the adjustable or detachable straps in some specific models that allow their users to carry it as a shoulder bag or a crossbody.

Vintage handbags will perfectly suit every occasion. Opt for a spacious model in your everyday wear if you want to carry your essentials to go to work: these bags will be really practical for it. In more formal events, we recommend you to choose a structured top-handle bag for weddings, or evening parties since it will be more sophisticated to match your look. Larger vintage handbags will be ideal if you intend to travel in order to have a functional yet elegant item to carry everywhere with you. Finally, a more compact and light version will be a chic choice for brunches and date nights. The choice is yours to always reimagine your style and find the perfect second-hand handbag to complement it.

Should you purchase Second-Hand Handbags?

If you ask our opinion, we will definitely answer yes! And we have many reasons to believe that, let us give them to you. First of all, you might be aware that nowadays, fashion has a terrible impact on the environment. By choosing second-hand bags you reduce the amount of waste, the use of water and the carbon-print related to your purchase. A first great reason, if you want to look elegant and do good for the planet at the same time.

Designers love to reinvent their styles and create new models over the years. What existed yesterday will never be made again and models tend to become more and more rare. Buying a second-hand handbag will allow you to get access to exclusive shapes and compositions that might not exist anymore. This is why they are so praised by fashion enthusiasts that love to explore the history of the brands to create their own look.

Of course, this is also valid about the quality and craftsmanship of the items. Against the mass production of fast-fashion, buying a preloved handbag offers the guarantee to get access to fine artistry from the most famous luxury houses. It sends the message that you have high standards and that you do not want to compromise between elegance and quality.

Finally, vintage bags are extremely appreciated by collectors because they remain a great investment over the years. Unlike new models that lose value, they keep being more and more desired for their uniqueness and might make you earn money if you keep a great creation in your house. Another argument that can make you interested in handbags for your personal collection.

Explore the most iconic Vintage Handbags

They shaped the history of fashion and made generations of women feel pretty and find their own signature bag. Let’s discover together some of the most famous models from the biggest brand to understand why this item is so important.

Chanel 2.55: we could never start our list without mentioning this handbag that was introduced in 1955. Famous for its quilted leather, the sleek rectangular shape and the chain strap, it is easy to recognize, extremely elegant and constitutes a masterpiece from the brand.

Hermès Kelly bag: designed in the 1930s, it was later renamed after Grace Kelly in the 1950s and became an instant favorite among women. Its refined craftsmanship with a very specific shape make it a timeless accessory that you need to know if you are interested in the universe of vintage handbags.

Louis Vuitton Speedy: known to be compact but very spacious, this model is an excellent choice for everyday use. Its exteriors display the signature LV monogram or often a damier design. You will particularly appreciate the contrast between the bag and its handle, that adds a little touch of sophistication in our opinion.

Gucci Bamboo Bag: it is impossible to talk about iconic handbags without listing this model introduced in the 1940s. Named after its innovative handle made from curved bamboo, this bag is the reflection of the creativity of the most famous Italian luxury house. A great piece to add to your collection if you love fine art and fashion.

Dior Lady Dior: the pattern on its leather, its structured silhouette and the size practical to use turned this bag into a forever favorite for many women in the world. Associated with Princess Diana, it exudes sophistication and chic. You will specifically appreciate the asymmetrical aspect of this bag thanks to the presence of the metallic letters that contribute to its style.

What Sets Our Pre-Loved Handbags Apart

Every month, our team tries to find unique pieces by sourcing handbags directly from Paris. We create exclusive drops with limited stock to help women find accessories they could not get anywhere else and elevate their wardrobe. This is the first reason that might catch your interest when it comes to finding good-looking vintage bags in our store.

Also, we put a real effort into guaranteeing that the authenticity of our items is 100% certain. Our process of verification includes our own experts, but also third-tier parties that contribute with an external eye to make sure that our vintage luxury handbags are authentic. This is also the case when it comes to checking the condition of our products. Our goal is to find bags that will be durable and last you long with the best quality possible. However, we value transparency and do not hesitate to show and tell all the elements that could detail the condition of our vintage handbags. This attention to detail and transparency are elements that our customers appreciate and that will make you feel comfortable when exploring our pieces.

Finally, we make sure that our products are always cheaper than the retail price to offer you deals that will be interesting. We believe that luxury should be affordable for every woman and this is why we intend to generalize the purchase of pre-loved handbags to help them feel pretty, wear iconic brands they like and easily elevate their wardrobe. This is why you should not forget to subscribe to our newsletter to receive an alert when we launch new vintage handbags drops in the next months.