How Everyday Handbags Became Staple Pieces

Written & Creative Directed by Sophia Lins

Photography by Jackie Tanner

Modeled by Sophia Lins, Annabella Diaz, Reese Tackett, & Abbi Flaugher

Your everyday go-to handbag is most likely your best friend. It’s a bag where you carry all your essentials, from your wallet to a piece of gum you’re saving for later. It’s your going out bag as well, like to the mall or to the club. Even with every outfit you put together, you always make it work with your handbag — a handbag can basically be your ride-or-die. It’s like love at first sight when you first see your handbag at either a thrift store, a boutique, or a high end store like Coach. 

Handbags have been used for centuries. In the 16th century when women's gowns didn’t have pockets, it was a separate garment meant to be hidden and tied around their waist. However, that changed in the 18th century when women's gowns became slimmer and the undergarment pocket was removed. According to an article published in Lodis, women’s handbags “were worn externally, and the scope of visibility fashioned them into various embroidered designs to match designated outfits.” The evolution from an undergarment “purse” to a visible handbag that is now fashioned, is a big step in how handbags have made their appearance throughout the years. It is a staple accessory everyone uses.

Not only are handbags versatile, they also make a mark in history. Princess Diana was offered a Dior bag to wear on her visit to Paris to attend the Paul Cézanne retrospective at the Grand Palais in 1995. The royal iconized the bag, which was fittingly named the Lady Dior bag (Dior). Another is the 1961 Jackie bag by Gucci. Jackie Kennedy popularized the bag by being seen carrying the bag frequently, leading to the bag being named after her. She even used the bag to cover her face from paparazzi. These bags and many more made an appearance in history and are categorized as “It Bags” by these iconic ladies. Handbags have come a long way from being an undergarment for women’s gowns to a visible bag that everyone carries around. 

Handbags are a staple in everyone’s closet. It’s an accessory that ties a look together. Small bags, tote bags, big bags, and even homemade bags are loved and cherished by all. Coordinating your handbag to your outfit is important when styling. A dark cherry shoulder bag will look great with a little black dress or a more casual outfit, like a gray fitted tee paired with baggy jeans. Another great pairing is a brown hobo bag with a fall outfit, like a white knitted sweater, black mini skirt, and knee high brown boots. There are many options to customize your handbag to your outfits. 

Have fun mismatching and styling your bags!