If you really want to talk vintage handbags and purses we can go way back to the first sighting. That would be the purse belonging to Otzi the Iceman. What year you ask? Oh around 3300 BCE. Also Egyptian hieroglyphics show us a type of pouch worn on the mid-body area. I guess human beings always had a need to put their various artifacts somewhere. In the 1700’s men’s breeches finally were made with pockets making it unnecessary to carry a purse.
Woman carried handbags called “reticules” in the 18th century. In the 14th and 15th centuries the purses were often ornamented with gold and beautiful embroidery.
In the 18th century handbags took on a more fashionable look. Many shapes, and sizes with different hooks and buckles.
One of the best known makers and designers of leather handbags was Etienne Aigner. His vintage leather handbags are highly sought after today. Born in Hungary in 1904 he first learned the craft of bookbinding.
Aigner had a passion for leather, and started to create his own designs in France. He was soon catching the attention of the large fashion houses and moved to New York.
Look for the well known signature on his bags. A brass “A” in the form of a horseshoe.
Some well known vintage handbag designers are; Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Fendi, Kate Spade, and there are many others. With demand for vintage leather handbags, purses, and other vintage accessories, designers are finding a large market for new vintage style handbags.
Some good examples of vintage leather handbags and purses would be;
Any 1960’s handbag by Lucille de Paris, simple but classy. How about a black leather purse with a gold metal chain, by “Igor”. But what you want to look for are the enameled country flags attached to the chain. Or a lush vintage 1950’s box purse in black suede, by Bienan Davis. The designer, Salvatore Ferragamo was admired by Princess Diana. His vintage leather handbags sell for high prices today. Look for his label; “Salvatore Ferragamo, Firenze, made in Italy”
Why buy a new handbag that’s been mass-produced to look like a vintage leather handbag, when with some effort you can find a really unique bit of history. It probably will be more affordable, made by hand with better materials, and who knows, maybe a Princess once owned it.

Author; D.A.Grosshans

 

RESOURCES:

Linda’s Stuff
Great Vintage Handbags

Dooney & Bourke

Wholesale Designer Handbag Directory