A handbag is a multipurpose accessory used to carry items like a wallet, cell phone, keys and a beauty kit. It provides more storage and organization than a simple purse and can be found in many different styles. A bag’s design often includes several pockets, zippers and sections to keep everything together. Some models even have interior lighting for easier access. Research and development into new materials is also a major focus for handbag makers.
The handbag is a fashion staple for women of all ages and can be used for both formal occasions and casual gatherings with friends. Its introduction in the 20th century has revolutionized how women carry their daily essentials. Unlike the flimsy coin purse sealed with a string, the first designer purse snap shut, leaving a woman’s hands free. Chanel’s classic kelly bag became so sought after in 1956 that there was a six month waiting list for one.
In the United States, most companies that manufacture handbags sell them through their own branded stores and in department and specialty retail outlets and catalogs. The handbag industry is a small part of the larger apparel and leather industries. Some companies, such as Ralph Lauren, also produce other products, including cellular phone cases, iPod cases and shoes. As of 2002, U.S. industry shipments of women’s handbags and purses had dropped to less than half of what they were in 1997. The decline was attributed to competition from foreign manufacturers and declining demand.
Afroyla African Women's Circle Crossbody Bag, Premium Vegan Leather, Adjustable Strap, Zipper Closure
$61.95 (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.)
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.)
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$25.99 (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.)
INICAT Travel Small Crossbody Sling Bags Valentines Day Gifts Women Her Cross Body Purses Vegan Leather Birthday
$25.99 (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.)
Women's RFID Slim Card Holder Wallet: Thin Bifold with Multi-Card Case & Zipper Coin Pocket Purse (Deep Purple)
$8.99 (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.)
Sightor Silver Mini Crossbody Bag for Women, PU Leather Small Evening Purse, Dressy Clutch Handbag for Nightclub Parties
$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.)
dassymia Tote Bag for Women Foldable Shoulder Bag Nylon Weekend Hobo Handbag
$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.)Auto Amazon Links: No products found. 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=The+Handbag+Industry|Purses+%26+Handbags&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_3bc0f01523b655eb1fb5eab4fe5df7a9