Handbags Through History | Fun Trivia Facts You Didn’t Know About Purses

Posted on: Mar 14

So you know your Prada from your Proenza Schouler, but do you really know everything there is to know about handbags? Here are some fun purse facts that they didn't teach you in school!

The first documented use of handbags comes from 14th century hieroglyphics. But these primitive purses were a long way from our girly fashion accessories. Back then lads tied the first "man bags" around their waist to carry flint.

By the 1400s ladies got in on the act. Purses covered in jewels and embroidery were serious status symbols. Wealthy bagistas were painted with bags fastened to their outfits with tasseled strings.

By the 17th century, handbags were out and small pouches worn under clothes were in. Then as tight-fitting clothes came into vogue in the 18th century, leather and embroidered handbags again found favor. It's around this time that women began to carry different bags to complement different outfits. Perfume, smelling salts, and visiting cards were carried in purses known as reticules.

The word "handbag" was first used in the 1900s to describe men's satchels and briefcases. Soon feminine versions were created with compartments for fans, gloves, and cosmetics.

But it wasn't until after World War I that handbags became an indispensable accessory for independent women. And we haven't looked back since!

[Source: Gisborne Herald]
[Image Source: Wikipedia Commons]