A handbag is more than just a fashion accessory; it signals the wearer’s status and combines function, symbolism and beauty. Women are willing to spend heavily on a bag that is unique, and that speaks to their own sense of style.
Designer bags are a big business, and the company that makes the latest iteration of one of their staple styles will likely be able to command a premium over its competitors. However, the industry is dynamic and changes rapidly. For example, tassels and kiss-lock closures may be all the rage this season but they’re not guaranteed to stay trendy.
Nonetheless, handbags are an important market segment, and designers have been working hard to develop innovative products. For example, some bags come with storage specially designed to hold iPods and personal digital assistants, while others offer interior lighting. Researchers are also exploring ways to incorporate biometric technology into handbags, so that a wearer could use her thumb or eye scan to access the contents of her purse.
In 2005, a typical American woman purchased four handbags, according to Coach Inc. The company manufactures and sells leather handbags, cellular phone cases, shoes, jewelry and luggage through online stores, catalogs and department stores. It also operates seven of its own stores in New York, Tokyo and Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
In addition to its traditional luxury line, Coach has been expanding its affordable line. Its latest addition is the Teddy Blake handbag, which offers some of the design and craftsmanship of a classic luxury brand but without its high price tag. The bag is made in the same factories as traditional luxury brands but doesn’t include a designer label or extravagant marketing campaign.
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.)
Montana West Purses for Women Hobo Shoulder Handbags with Zipper
$18.99 (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.)
YOOLIFE Christmas Gifts for Women - Initial Jute Tote Bag & Makeup Bag, Birthday Gifts for Women Mom Wife Teacher Friend
$27.99 (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.)
CYHTWSDJ Shoulder Bags for Women, Cute Hobo Tote Handbag Mini Clutch Purse with Zipper Closure
$16.98 (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.)
COACH Women's Crystal Jacquard Swinger 20 with Chain
$225.00 (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 Sling Bag for Women, Anti-Theft RFID Crossbody Bag Nylon Sling Purse for Travel, Puffy Small backpack for Daily Hiking Sports Green
$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.)
JSENGIFT Gifts for Women Basket Set of 6, Christmas Mothers Day Birthday Gifts for Mom Grandma Sister Daughter
$19.97 (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=Purses+%26+Handbags|Trends+in+Handbags&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_4294a813d658e1ad2d50865b6aa30edb