A handbag is a bag worn across the body, or held by one’s shoulder, for carrying everyday essentials like a wallet, keys, and phone. It can be large or small, and often includes interior and exterior pockets for keeping things organized. It can also be a fashion statement with an elaborate design, or a practical and functional purse that meets the needs of its owner.
A popular example of a handbag is the Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas, which has become synonymous with the luxury brand, and is an iconic accessory for women. Another popular style is the Chanel Classic Flap Bag, which features a flap closure with a chain link entwined through two kissing locks. The bag has a soft leather lining and is available in several colors.
Purses have been used for thousands of years, changing as the style of clothing evolved. Originally, men carried bags, and references are found in Ancient Egypt hieroglyphics of pouches that were worn around the waist. During the 1400s in Europe, both men and women wore small carrying pouches, which were usually made of cloth or leather with a wide strap.
The name “handbag” was coined in the early 20th century, by fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton and Hermes, as a more fashionable, feminine-sounding term for these bags. Previously, these bags were called hand luggage, and later, purses. Because of rationing of textiles for the war effort, women during this time made their own handbags from materials such as raffia or crocheted from yarn.
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WEEKXING Crossbody Bag for Women Shoulder Handbags Top-Handle Lightweight Large Capacity Casual Nylon Purse Handbag
$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.)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|What+is+a+Handbag%3F&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_9333b0b866242c89f4341aec3a8a3825