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- One of the most popular handbags in the 1930's was the crocodile bag. The "IT" bag for this era often had a Bakelite handle and genuine crocodile claw paws!
- In the 15th century, privileged men and women carried bags adorned with lace, which was more expensive than gold.
- When Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisioned in the Tower of London, she spent most of her time embroidering handbags as gifts for her captors.
- The "Miser's Purse" was carried by both males and females in the 1800's. This type of bag had a central opening and 2 metal sliders at each end. These were worn either on a belt or kept in a larger bag - the purpose was to carry change.
- Some interesting stats to think about! In 2004, an estimated 5 billion was spent in the United States for handbags. 44% of women age 13 and over say they bought a handbag in 2004 - this is up from 26% just 5 years ago!
- In Victorian times, most people (men and women) carried a crocheted purse that hung from their belts. This was called a "misers" purse because the opening was only a tiny slit so money could only be gotten very slowly.
- Instead of logos on their handbags, the elite had their family crest either embroidered or painted on their bags in the 15th and 16th century in Europe.
- During the First World War, women began to leave home in order to help with the war effort and their handbags reflected their new working status. Bags became more utilitarian such as messenger style handbags and cartridge bags that could be slung over the shoulder when traveling to work.
- After the French Revolution womens clothes had become so delicate that it was impossible for them to contain a pocket, so the handbag was born.
- In 1500, the drawstring bag was a status possession. Paintings of that era show flat bags gathered by tasseled strings. By the end of the century, however, fashion went undercover, as women preferred to wear their pouches under their skirts.
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