Iruni Kalupahana JadeTimes Staff
I. Kalupahana is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion
The Early Beginnings: Pouches and Pockets
The history of handbags goes all the way back to ancient times, when early forms of personal storage played a prime role in life. The people of ancient Egypt wore small pouches around their waists. These would be early bags made from leather or woven. They served to carry small, almost tiny, things such as tools, spices, and small treasures. These kinds of pouches, known during medieval times as "pockets," were used by men and women alike. The men's pouches were becoming very ornate and hung from their belts in the 14th century, while a woman sewed her pockets inside her gowns. These early accessories are not just highly functional but also serve as social statements of the wearer. Further, during the Renaissance, more ornate, specialized bags occasionally embroidered with precious stones became an important evidence of the owner's wealth and the craftsman's skill.
The Birth of the Modern Handbag
The beginning of the change in handbags into what they are today started with the introduction of the reticule in the 18th century. Because women were increasingly adapting slim silhouettes from voluminous skirts, a need arose for practical and stylish carrying solutions. It was this that made the small, drawstring bag called a reticule from luxurious fabrics such as silk and satin a fashion necessity. These were heavily beaded or embroidered and contained personal items such as cosmetics and handkerchiefs. The reticule was at once highly functional and an incredibly fashion forward statement piece one that spoke volumes about a woman in terms of her grace and sophistication. Moving into the Victorian era, the reticule would further evolve, elaborate designs denoted social status. It has also been further influenced by the Industrial Revolution with the mass production of bags, thus giving easier access to all.
The Rise of Designer Handbags
As the late 19th and early 20th centuries rolled in, high fashion designer handbags began to take flight. Industrialization now allowed for more consistent and higher quality across greater productions. In 1854, Louis Vuitton launched his eponymous store in Paris and introduced the now iconic LV monogram, pioneering a revolution in handbags through his durable, stylish luggage. Likewise, Gucci, founded in 1921, also played its great role, introducing quality leather and unprecedented design. The middle of the 20th century gave birth to designer handbags, such as Chanel 2.55, which Coco Chanel launched in 1955. It was quilted with a chain strap for both pragmatic and fashionable aims. Another symbol of luxury and sophistication, Hermes Kelly, got its name from Grace Kelly back in the 1950s. These designer handbags were not only fashion status symbols but also set a new standard for craftsmanship and design in the fashion arena.
Handbags as Cultural Symbols
The handbag has become an intrinsic part of identity, status, and self expression in today's fashion. By the late 20th century, it gave birth to what is called the "It bag." Items such as the Fendi Baguette and the Prada Nylon Backpack reached mass market popularity and further became cultural icons. Such creations often reflect current trends and social attitudes, making them a status symbol and avant garde. The early 2000s heralded the birth of the limited edition and celebrity endorsed handbag, which really set the handbag into the fashion psyche. Today, handbags continue to evolve, from the recent interest in sustainability and ethical fashion. Brands are increasingly focusing on eco friendly materials and transparent production practices, reflecting broader societal concerns about environmental impact. While fashion is in continuous flux from generation to generation, a handbag remains multi purposed and an influential accessory, which speaks to both historic memory and modern trends.
