You and I know that fashion handbags are more than just carry-alls. They have iconic standing in the world’s most stylish circles, inferring much about their owner’s personality and social status. Indeed well-heeled women the world over eagerly join waiting lists for famous designs with little regard for their price.
Early handbags: more function, less fashion
Two thousand years ago fashion handbags were simple pouches shaped from unfinished leather, typically carried by men. It wasn’t until medieval times that wealthy women began beautifying their handbags with lavish embroidery and jewels as a reflection of their standing. The fashion handbag briefly fell out of favour during the 17th and 18th centuries because women’s roomy, multi-layered clothes masked plentiful pockets that made goods easily accessible and secure.
The end of the 19th century saw the ‘reticule’, the forerunner of modern fashion handbags, gain popularity. Fashion had given way to slim-line, high-waisted, figure-hugging dresses of filmy muslin. Naturally, no stylish woman wished to spoil the outline with crammed pockets below her petticoats. The reticule was a small decorative bag much like modern day evening bags chosen to compliment different outfits.
20th Century: freedom, at last!
It was the 1920's that gave us the contemporary fashion handbags as we recognise them today. Again, the fashion was for light, skimpier dresses unsuited to pockets. Socially, it was also a period of increasing independence for women. For the first time, they could go out on their own and travel without a man or a servant in tow. The handbag became a symbol of their new independence.
Designers in the 1950’s began naming handbag designs, many of which became classics that are still sought after today. The Hermes ‘Kelly’ bag, for example, which was favoured by Grace Kelly, and the Chanel 2.55 quilted shoulder bag, that was first produced in February 1955.
The 1960’s youth culture rejected the handbags their mothers chose so designers were quick to experiment with modern materials, exciting new designs and bright colours to evoke a more carefree perception of the fashion handbag. A new era was born, reviving the fashion handbag’s special place in the heart of women.
Shoulder bag
, clutch, hold-all a bag for all seasons
Now we have fashion handbags for every conceivable event and mood. More practical and good looking than ever they’ve evolved into portable offices, complete with spaces for a laptop and phone. From the boardroom to the airport, from a weekend in the country to the rigours of transporting the numerous essentials of a young family around town, Cheet bags take you effortlessly from day to night.
Trusted guardians of our identities, our beautifying potions and much more, bags are also increasingly becoming an essential part of every metropolitan man’s wardrobe, with tough but luxurious messenger bags and wallets. Carrying everything you need to work, play and keep looking great despite staying out all night!
It is with this very modern design mindset that Cheet London carves its distinctive path. Since 2003, Cheet London designs have captured the attention of discerning handbag devotees everywhere. And with each new season a new tone is set and the evolution of the ‘Cheet look’ continues. A legacy, we hope, that will be evoked in future handbag histories!
