Handbags first appeared in writing during the 14^th century but they have been around in one form or another since the beginning of time. The hieroglyphics done by the Egyptians show them with pouches attached to them. During the Medieval, pictures reveal both men and women wearing what looked like a large belt with a bag attached that hangs down.  During the 16^th century handbags were developed for more practical reasons. They were made of a durable fabric or leather with a draw string closure. People would wear large fabric bags across their bodies like satchels while they traveled.

In the 17th century women would use purse to embroider on and prove their skills to potential suiters to show that they would make a suitable wife. During this time both women and men would carry small handbags. With the massive Elizabethan clothing, woman of great prestige would ware bags under their large skirts and men would carry pouches made of leather in their breeches. Since personal hygiene products were not available and bathing was not done daily, many of the upper class would carry thin fabric bags that help good smelling flowers or herbs. They would use the bags to put up to their noses when going into the city and the smell was too much for them.

In the 18^th century the skirts and layers of under garments were replaced with more narrow skirts. This allowed the purse to come back into the public view. Also make up had become accessible to the masses with most women insisting on carrying their powder, lipsticks and a fan at all times. They also needed a handbag to hold visiting cards, cards that they would give potential suiters their contact information. Their handbags were usually designed to exactly match their outfits. In the 19^th century is when they actually started being called handbags but was not what we think of today when we hear the word. Then is was a small piece of luggage carried by men when they traveled.

When women desired something like it, purse designers recognized the need and began to make them for them. Women wanted them due to their many compartments for organizing and their locks or intricate fasteners. This lead to smaller handbags for women to emerge on the market that were designed to carry just their daily essentials. Matching the handbag with their outfits went out of style in the 1920s and instead women would carry a handbag that may compliment their outfit but not match exactly. The clutch became very popular because it could be easily carried under the arm and they were made with beautiful designs. This is when handbags began their switch from just a necessity to a real fashion statement.

In the 1930s manufactures began to make the classic handbag with a claps frame and handles, as well as the satchel purse and shoulder bag. They made them from many materials, such as plastic, not just leather. They had abstract patterns and colors that went along with the Art Deco Style. Handbags in the 1940s were made larger and had a practical, military style to them. Designer handbags got their star during the 1950s with Vuitton and Chanel. Today handbags come in a variety of style and colors. They are made from every material imaginable and in all sizes. They range drastically in prices and the possibilities are endless. They have certainly come a long way since they got their ancient start.

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