The Reasons to Own a Handbag Handbags have been around for centuries and at one time only men used them. Back in the day men would use what was known as a change purse. These purses could be worn and held the coins that were needed to purchase goods. At this point in time women did not use the coin purses. During the Industrial Revolution more women began to use change purses. Traveling was becoming more popular during this time and larger bags were needed. The bags that were going to be used for traveling were made considerably bigger than the coin purses and this is how luggage came about. During the 17th century young women had to learn how to embroider in order to be ready for marriage. Young women would practice their embroidery skills on the change purses and some were stunningly beautiful. Handbags were used as gift receptacles. The 19th century heralded the use of technology and handbags began to take on different shapes and different materials could be used. The women would embroider the purses and bags so that they could show them to those of the opposite sex who would be good marriage material. It was the early 1900’s that the purses and handbags of today were in early development. Handbags were used for shopping bags and were made from leather. Men began to use bags that are known as briefcases. During this time women wore what was known as Dorothy bags. These bags were made to match the beautiful dresses of the day. It was normal to see opera glasses and ornate fans affixed to the Dorothy Bags. In the 920’s women began to use pochettes which are known as clutches now. Clutches were carried under the arm. It was during this era that bags did not have to coordinate perfectly with the outfit that the women were wearing. Metal, leather and zippers were in high demand during this time so those who made the bags would use plastic and wood. Synthetic fabrics were also being used in the place of leather during this time. It was also during this time that the early drawstring pouches became popular again. As more women began to join the workforce handbags that were worn over the shoulder became the norm. These bags were more of a convenience tool rather than a fashion statement. During the 1970’s the over the shoulder large handbags became vogue because of the youth traveling to India and beyond. Women of this time loved the bags with the buckles and zippers because it represented strength. There were also beautiful handbags with motifs of flowers being trendy at the time. Fast forward to this day and age and handbags are seen and sold pretty much everywhere. Handbags have also become both a fashion statement and status symbols. Designer handbags such as the Gucci Handbag can be very expensive. Because the Gucci Bags can be so expensive many women want to own one to fit in with the richer population. Designer bags like Gucci Handbags can be bought for a fraction of the cost if the person looking to purchase one does their research. Yes, it may be easier to walk into one of the local stores and purchase
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