Whether it’s a poppy cherry shoulder bag or a mini top-handle satchel, a woven jacquard textured statement piece or a sleek calfskin tote—a good handbag is one of the most important investment pieces in your closet. The right bag can elevate a pair of jeans or make an outfit feel like an occasion. From a timeless leather silhouette to a playful take on floral appliqués, there’s something for every season and occasion.
In the United States, most handbag makers are independent companies that design and produce a range of bags or carry the lines of other designers. Some larger apparel and leather goods companies also manufacture handbags, such as Coach and Kate Spade. These manufacturers distribute their bags through a variety of outlets, including their branded stores, any number of retail stores, the Internet and catalogs.
Generally, a company that makes a line of handbags will manufacture other goods, such as shoes or scarves, in addition to these accessories. This can help them maintain quality and production standards, and it also allows them to gain an advantage in the market by leveraging their existing distribution channels.
As the Industrial Revolution accelerated, labor and production became more efficient, and this was reflected in fashion. Women began to take on more and more workplace duties, and they needed sturdier and more functional purses. Hence, the modern-day handbag was born. In general, a handbag should be narrow enough to fit comfortably on the arm, have a single large main compartment, and zip closed. The bottom of the bag may be flat, or it might have a gusset on the bottom and sides for added structure and functionality.
YOOLIFE Christmas Gifts for Women - Initial Canvas Tote Bag & Makeup Bag, Birthday Gifts for Women Mom Sister Friends
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SYTRAH Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse for Women, Crossbody Shoulder Bag with Built-in Wallet & RFID Blocking for Travel Workout
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$24.99 (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.)
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$5.99 (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.)
BLESSAC Bible Leather Handbag For Christian Women, Medium, Zipper - Christmas Gift For Wife, Mom, Grandma
$79.95 (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=Purses+%26+Handbags|Buying+a+Handbag&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_d5a96f1650e24238d60eb689293bf2e0