What is a Purse?

A purse is a bag that holds money, keys and other small items. It can be a stylish accessory or simply a convenient way to hold your essentials.

A large tote style purse is ideal for carrying work essentials such as a notebook, tablet and lunch. It can be carried by the shoulder or with one hand and is easy to open and close. It’s available in a range of materials from soft leather to durable canvas and can be customised with embroidery or monograms.

Purses are a symbol of a woman’s wealth and status, with the history of the handbag dating back more than 5000 years. Evidence of pouches can be found with the mummy of Otzi, Europe’s oldest natural mummy, and more recently an ornate purse was discovered in Anglo-Saxon England at Sutton Hoo.

In the 19th century, there was a large increase in rail travel which lead to the creation of new purse styles that could hold more items. The relicule, a sleek and slender purse, was re-invented for women to wear with slim dresses and complemented the new sleeker designs of the time.

Designer purses are an iconic piece of fashion that can add a sense of sophistication and elegance to any outfit. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours with some bags showcasing innovative designs.

When choosing a designer purse, consider the size and silhouette of the bag as well as the hardware and materials. For example, calfskin is a more sturdy material than exotic skins, so it will withstand everyday wear and tear better. Likewise, choose neutral shades such as black or nude rather than brighter ones, as they are more versatile and will look timeless. Alternatively, a logo-emblazoned designer purse can add an instant fashion icon to any ensemble.