The history of women's handbags - a symbol of liberation?

As a handbag manufacturer, Aulovely naturally felt not only curious, but also obliged to study the history of women's bags. All of this is so captivating, instructive, and a reminder of how fashion of a bygone era was heavily influenced by what men considered "acceptable" and led women to submit. Who would have thought that a woman wearing a bag would be considered vulgar? More on that later.

Our research began with the oldest known bag found on a frozen ice man named Otzi, who lived around 3300 BC. It is clear that bags and satchels have been essential since time immemorial. After scouring the internet and reading who designed the first bag, our research takes us back centuries and other continents. We found too much information to share in a short blog, but the history of women's handbags is really interesting.

Instead of getting too historical or excited to share interesting anecdotes about the birth of the handbag, we focused on Western civilization that started in Europe. Bags that are exposed on the body can only be worn by men. In addition to this practical need, menswear is also equipped with pockets. Well not particularly interesting, but more interesting is that there were no women's handbags back then, and their clothes had no pockets! This fashion trend seems to apply mainly to prominent women. It was considered vulgar and unlady for a woman of high society to be seen carrying anything but perhaps a decorative fan or umbrella. While there isn't much information on this, we're pretty sure working-class women are hanging out!

Since womenswear has no pockets, they obviously had to improvise. Small pouches like sacks are tied with ribbons, tied around the waist and worn only under skirts, never showing up. These little bags are actually considered underwear. As womenswear styles evolve to be more fitted, these little bags just add bulk and are not flattering, so there's a big problem. Let's stop here. Can you limit the image like this? We figured they must not have gone out the way women do today. As a result, women began to wear their "ugly" little bags over their clothes. But the practice was short-lived, as the bags were still considered underwear.

As a result, a more stylish way of wearing a pouch has emerged. The first socially acceptable bag for women was called the "Reticule". These bags are very delicate and highly decorative. Many are handcrafted by the women who wear them. Initially, they were loosely knitted pouches, but over time they evolved into finely beaded designs. By the early 20th century, the demand for more practical and durable handbags actually exploded. Another victory for women!

And just like that, it started. In 1854, luggage maker Louis Vuitton pioneered the design of the women's handbag. Vuitton took inspiration from a suitcase and turned it into a small, sleek, structured bag. His handbag uses sturdy handles, snap buttons and interior pockets. The snap closure provides women with some privacy for their personal items and gives them a sense of independence. wow! Really?

So historically, handbags are indeed a symbol of women's equality and independence. Baby, we've come a long way. In today’s world, the bags women choose to wear can represent creative expression and even status. Oh, things we take for granted, um...