A handbag is an accessory that can complement or enhance a woman’s outfit, while at the same time providing storage for essential items like a cell phone and wallet. A wide range of purse shapes, sizes, pockets and purse hardware can be found in handbags, from petite clutch purses to roomy tote bags. The handbag industry continues to grow, as more women want to carry everything they need in a bag.
In the early 20th century, handbags evolved simultaneously with fashion trends and cultural changes. Unlike a flimsy mesh reticule or decorative coin purse sealed with a string, the new handbag snapped shut and allowed women to carry their belongings without risk of them being stolen. The handbag became a symbol of women’s liberation and independence.
A new generation of designers is incorporating security features into handbags, such as interior lighting to help deter theft. Various closure styles are also being explored, including magnetic snaps and zips that offer both simplicity and security. Handbag manufacturers are also exploring ways to incorporate biometric technology into purses, so that a person could use their eye scan or thumbprint to access the contents of their bag.
Many purses are designed to be easy to care for, with some materials requiring only occasional cleaning or conditioning. Other handbags are more complicated to maintain, with some needing regular professional maintenance by a leather or textile specialist to keep them in good condition. Handbags are also becoming more and more technological, with some designs offering built-in iPod or personal digital assistant storage.
BAGSMART Tote Bag for Women, Teacher Tote with Insulated Compartment, Large Puffer Work Tote Handbags for Work
$24.49 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
higouta Quilted Puffer Tote Bag for Women Large Puffy Carryall Crossbody Shoulder Purse, Lightweight Travel Nylon Hobo Bag
$27.72 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Travelambo RFID Wallet Women Large Size Bifold Multi Card Wallet Case with Zipper Pocke Credit Card Holder for Women
$12.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
LOVEVOOK Purses and Handbags,PU Leather Purse for women with Zipper,Cute Bow Satchel Top Handle Bags for Ladies
$21.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Montana West Tote Bags for Women Medium Top Handle Satchel Purses
$29.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Angel Kiss Purses for Women Small Hobo Shoulder Bags Vagen Leather Multi-Pocket Tote Bag with Zipper
$35.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
SYTRAH Small Backpack Purse for Women, Mini Backpack Vegan Leather with RFID Blocking & Tablet Pocket, Cute Shoulder Handbag for Travel, School & Work Brown
$37.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Auto Amazon Links: No products found. http_request_failed: A valid URL was not provided. URL: https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?SearchIndex=All&multipageStart=0&multipageCount=20&Operation=GetResults&Keywords=A+Brief+History+of+Handbags|Purses+%26+Handbags&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_ccab36c456f5bf8b087358004c073980