A Guide to Buying a Handbag

handbag

The perfect handbag is a coveted fashion accessory, signalling status and beauty in addition to carrying essentials. A well-made purse will last for seasons and ages, with the right choice of fabric or leather it can be the centerpiece of your wardrobe. A sleek number from Givenchy is the height of glamour and expert craftsmanship, or an Alexander McQueen bag depicts raw art with its dramatic designs.

A rebirth in the fashion industry in the twentieth century saw the popularity of the handbag as women began to enter the workforce in larger numbers. The reticules and decorative coin purses of the past were replaced by more functional bags that snapped shut, keeping valuables secure. These larger bags also allowed women to carry more items, and were often embellished with embroidered images of love, to show off their wealth and status.

In the modern era, many luxury brands have focused on a more minimalist approach to design. Mansur Gavriel, for example, debuted into the fashion scene in 2013 with a line of sleek bucket and tote bags that redefined luxury by offering season-less styles that would never go out of style.

In recent years, the handbag market has seen an influx of new players, some established and some up-and-coming. One reason for this is that it’s easier and cheaper to start a handbag brand in the United States than to set up shop abroad, where labor costs are higher. Another reason is the growing interest in sustainability, which has led to a number of manufacturers exploring the use of recycled materials.