Purely purse-onal
October 6, 2002 | 12:00am
Womens ever-changing roles and moods are often complemented by her ever-reliable and oh-so-fashionable accessoryher bag.
The handbag has come a long way from the early 19th century when it started as a separate garment tied around the waist. Later that century, purses tied around the wrist were either embroidered, beaded or bejeweled. During World War I, women became war volunteers, and their fashion accessory then became the utility bag. In the 1920s to 30s, women became wage earners, becoming more independent and traveling more. Luggage, hatboxes and trunks became necessities. During World War II, while the men were off fighting, the women took on their husbands jobs, and shoulder bags and drawstring closures ruled.
During the experimental 60s, bags in bold colors and plastic materials were hot. Diverse styles were the "in" thing during the 70sbig tapestry bags, disco clutches and ethnic-inspired pieces. Sports bags were big in the 80s. This was a time where women really paid attention to fitness (remember Olivia Newton Johns Lets Get Physical video).
Fashion has come full circle with designers reworking classic designs. Top designers and bag manufacturers have created bags to suit the computer agelaptop cases, hand-held computer pouches and cellular phone holders.
At this point, it really doesnt matter what role we play, what mood were in or what fantasy we would like to fulfill. With a sturdy, flirty or functional bag, theres always something to hang on to.
(Thank you for all your e-mails. For more of your suggestions, e-mail me at jenniepperson@hotmail.com)
The handbag has come a long way from the early 19th century when it started as a separate garment tied around the waist. Later that century, purses tied around the wrist were either embroidered, beaded or bejeweled. During World War I, women became war volunteers, and their fashion accessory then became the utility bag. In the 1920s to 30s, women became wage earners, becoming more independent and traveling more. Luggage, hatboxes and trunks became necessities. During World War II, while the men were off fighting, the women took on their husbands jobs, and shoulder bags and drawstring closures ruled.
During the experimental 60s, bags in bold colors and plastic materials were hot. Diverse styles were the "in" thing during the 70sbig tapestry bags, disco clutches and ethnic-inspired pieces. Sports bags were big in the 80s. This was a time where women really paid attention to fitness (remember Olivia Newton Johns Lets Get Physical video).
Fashion has come full circle with designers reworking classic designs. Top designers and bag manufacturers have created bags to suit the computer agelaptop cases, hand-held computer pouches and cellular phone holders.
At this point, it really doesnt matter what role we play, what mood were in or what fantasy we would like to fulfill. With a sturdy, flirty or functional bag, theres always something to hang on to.
(Thank you for all your e-mails. For more of your suggestions, e-mail me at jenniepperson@hotmail.com)
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