GENEOLOGY OF A HANDBAG

Egyptian Hieroglyphic showing pouches

Pouches used in the Middle ages

The origins of the handbag can be traced to the Egyptians, who carried pouches at their waist or held them in their hands. Pouches later appeared in Europe in the middle ages in the 14th and 15th centuries, carried by both men and women. These pouches, called “pockets” at the time, were attached to the girdle (cord or fabric band that hung loosely around the waist gathering in the robes) worn at the waist.

The first image above is of an Egyptian hieroglyphic showing the pouch being held in the hand. The second image is from the middle ages showing the pouch suspended from a woman’s waist girdle.

16th century handbag

17th century handbags

In the early 16th century, handbags were made of cloth and leather and had a drawstring closure. They were either worn attached to a girdle, hand-carried or worn under clothing. A person’s wealth and social status was often evident in the size of the handbag and by the degree of ornamentation. Lager handbags were carried by travelers across their bodies. In the 17th century, men stopped carrying handbags as menswear clothing began to feature sewn-in pockets. Women, on the other hand, continued to carry handbags which were smaller in size and elaborately embroidered.

The first image above is of a 16th century embroidered handbag with a drawstring. The second image is of the 17th century handbags made from silk or leather, with raised metal embroidery.

18th century reticule

By the 18th century, neo-classical sensibilities influenced women's manner of dressing, and silhouettes of garments became slender. Hence, women started carrying their handbags outside. These handbags were called “reticules” and they became a part of the wearer’s outfit. Women had different handbags to match different garments and to suit different occasions, and used these handbags to carry their accessories.

The image above is of a 18th century reticule made from silk with floral embroidery and silk cord tassels.

20th century 2.55 Chanel handbag

The term “handbag” was first used in the early 20th century. Handbags symbolized women’s new-found freedom and independence in this era. These bags incorporated elements like metal fastenings and internal compartments. In the 1950s the era of status handbags began. It was during this era that designers like Chanel and Louis Vuitton became popular.

The image above is of the handbag created by Coco Chanel called 2.55 Chanel bag. It was a diamond-quilted bag suspended on golden shoulder strap chains.

21st century Bottega Veneta handbag

In the 21st century, handbags have become not only a functional item necessary to support our busy and diverse lifestyles, but have also evolved into a major fashion accessory necessary to complete an outfit. They are available in a variety of styles (such as clutch bags, totes, shoulder bags) and different shapes, sizes, and colors. Women can now choose from a variety of designs depending on their personal styles.

The image above is of a handbag from one of my favorite designer brands, Bottega Veneta. It has style, creativity and fulfils all the requirements of a handbag.