Fashion Handbags: Variations Throughout History
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010There is a difference between fashion handbags and handbags that are merely fads. The former type of bags is truly elegant and may have a classic look that has stood the test of time. The latter type may be popular, but not necessarily beautiful or even attractive in the classic sense. They are the bags that you grab for a day at the beach or a picnic at the park. They are more lighthearted and may be made of less durable materials.
Classic handbags are designed to last for years with proper care. They should look good for as long as you use them. A classic design doesn’t come into and out of fashion, so you can afford to pay a little more for a handbag. There are some very acceptable imitations of the designer bags that cost less, but they may have a somewhat shorter lifetime.
Classic handbags are often made of top quality leather. This can be cowhide or more exotic materials such as alligator. Silk bags or sequined bags have been carried to the opera. Decorative bags are often smaller than utilitarian bags since they don’t need to hold as much. Sometimes a vial of perfume and a credit card is enough to get you through the evening. They aren’t heavy or large so the bag doesn’t need to be either.
Classic bags tend to come in classic colors. Black bags, white bags and other somber colors can be interspersed with bags of burgundy or cream. Tapestry-type bags are popular for some occasions. The bags may use metal as decoration or as fittings. Sometimes the interior of the bag features metal in a zipper or pull tab, but the outside shows only a leather face.
Variations in the most fashionable bags over the years have included size, interior design and shape of the bag. Handbags can be purchased that are square, rectangular, round, oval, trapezoidal, or variations of the above. The more elegant bags are usually smaller in size especially if the owner plans to carry it where both hands will be needed during the wearing time. Larger bags are easier to keep track of, but they are also easier to snatch.
For generations, bags from the famous fashion houses of Italy have been accepted as the statement of chic beauty. Some handbag designers began as an offering within the fashion house and gradually developed into a strong separate line. Other designers focused originally on handbags and only after the bags were successful added other accessories.
Some designers today are placing more emphasis upon handbags that are environmentally friendly–green handbags. The advertising is intended to reach the group of people who are interested in animal rights or endangered species protection. Another important segment of the handbag buying population is dedicated to boycotting manufacturers and designers who make use of child labor.
It is unlikely that fashion handbags will ever become a thing of the past. Over the years they have changed to include pockets for credit cards, cell phones and netbooks. They go to class and to a rock concert. They go with blue jeans and a little black dress.
It is simple to achieve your personal style and signature look with handbags that are designed to match any wardrobe selection. Choose fashion today that is affordable and accessible!