National Handbag Day

Young woman with a stylish handbag walking down a bustling city street, confidently flaunting her trendy outfit and accessorized with fashionable sunglasses.. — National handbag day illustration

Get ready for a celebration of fashion's favorite accessory, as we delve into the delightful depths of National Handbag Day (we know, it is the best day ever). You may think we are clutching at straws, but on this day, totes the time to appreciate the beauty of the bag.

When is Handbag Day?

It's national handbag day on the 10th October.

Unzipping the History of National Handbag Day

What once served as purely functional items, handbags have evolved into a fashion statement over the centuries. Now, there's a whole day dedicated to the appreciation of these stylish, practical lifesavers. While National Handbag Day is a relatively new phenomenon, the popularity of this day has soared in recent years, like your handbag does when you fill it with too much change. 2015 saw the biggest online celebrations to date, with 5487 mentions just on 10th October that year. Guess what that means? Handbag Day is really catching on. We'd like to think that somewhere out there, a group of fancy purses celebrated with a night on the town.

Why the Handbag?

Why not? They carry all of life's necessities, and they look good doing it, too. They're like the Mary Poppins of accessories — mysteriously spacious, endearingly practical, and endlessly fashionable. From cute clutches to stylish satchels, their unending variety means something for everyone, be it function or fashion, or that rare, delightful combination of both. So, let's give it up for the handbag: the hardest working accessory in your wardrobe.

Celebrating National Handbag Day

There are many ways to celebrate. Some choose to treat themselves or a loved one to a new bag because heck it's handbag day. Others go for a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about their favorite handbag and spending quality time with the bags they already own. Host a tea party with your purses if you're feeling adventurous, or maybe just a good old clean up session will do. After all, we all know what treasures (or trash) may dwell in the depths of your purse!

History behind the term 'Handbag'

15th century

The Carrying Pouch

During the 15th century, small pouches known as 'drawstring purses' or 'pockets' were commonly used by both men and women to carry their personal belongings. These pouches were made of leather or fabric and were typically attached to a belt or girdle around the waist.

17th century

The Reticle Fashion

In the 17th century, a new fashion emerged called the 'reticule'. It was a small embroidered bag or pouch with a drawstring closure. Reticules were primarily used by women and were made of luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet. They were carried by hand and became a fashionable accessory.

19th century

The Rise of Handbags

In the 19th century, the concept of the handbag as we know it today started to evolve. Women began to carry larger bags, often called 'hand bags', to carry personal items and accessories. These handbags were usually made of leather and featured handles for easy carrying. They became an essential accessory for fashionable women.

20th century

Innovation and Accessibility

The 20th century brought various innovations to the handbag industry. In the 1920s, the Art Deco movement influenced handbag designs, with luxurious materials and geometric patterns. As mass production became more prevalent, handbags became more accessible to a wider audience. The introduction of zippers in the 1930s added functionality and security to handbags.

21st century

Contemporary Handbag Trends

In the 21st century, handbags have become not only a functional accessory but also a statement of style and status. Designer handbags, such as those from iconic brands, have gained significant popularity and have become coveted fashion items. The diversity in styles, materials, and sizes of handbags continues to evolve, catering to different needs and preferences.

Did you know?

Did you know that some of the world's most expensive handbags are auctioned off at Christie's in Hong Kong, and they can sell for as much as a pricey home? One particular diamond-encrusted Hermes Birkin bag was auctioned off for a jaw-dropping $300,168!