Shoulder bags have been popular at different times throughout history, including: Ancient times Shoulder bags were originally created to carry essentials. World War II Shoulder bags became a fad during the war, inspired by the military satchels carried by men. Women wore them across their bodies or slung over their shoulders while walking or biking to work. 1950s–1960s Shoulder bags became a symbol of modernity and elegance. In the 1960s, women also reclaimed the style as a more practical alternative to the popular plastics of the space age. 1970s–1980s Luxury brands like Chanel and Gucci embraced the trend, making shoulder bags highly sought-after accessories. In the 1980s, handbags became a way to communicate personal style, often featuring branding, monograms, and hardware. 1990s–2000s Shoulder bags became a key part of the "It" bag phenomenon, with Fendi and Dior among the brands leading the trend. Today Shoulder bags are currently popular again, with a trend cycle that's led to a return of styles from the 1990s and early 2000s.
The concept of crossbody bags, also known as shoulder bags, dates back to ancient times, when people used them to carry personal belongings. However, the modern crossbody bag began to take shape in the 20th century, and has experienced several periods of popularity: 1950s Fashion designer Robert Sakowitz was inspired by 18th century cross-body strap bags to create the modern crossbody bag, which was later revised by his daughter Bunny with the addition of a zipper. The bag became a hit with fashionable women of the time, and even more popular after Audrey Hepburn wore it in Breakfast at Tiffany's. 1960s and 1970s The rise of hippie culture led to a demand for practical and comfortable bags for festivals and travel, which made shoulder bags like bohemian-inspired "saddlebags" popular. 1990s Crossbody bags became an integral part of the "It" bag phenomenon, with designers like Prada and Fendi creating iconic designs. The style was also embraced by hip-hop culture and the rave scene, who liked the hands-free dancing and potential to carry illicit substances, earning the bag the nickname "hash bag"
Tote bags became popular in the 1940s, but the concept of carrying items in a tote-like bag dates back to the 17th century. The word "tote" comes from the 1800s and means "to carry". In 1807, Washington Irving used the word in print for the first time, writing "At Baltimore I made a stay of two days, during which I was toted about town"
Clutch bags have been popular in various ways throughout history, including as a fashion accessory in the early 20th century, a practical item during World War II, and a red carpet staple in the 1920s and 1930s Instead, a handle-free bedecked and bedazzled bag was born. The classic woman's clutch. Gem-encrusted clutches quickly became THE accessory for stars and socialites alike. It wasn't until WWII that the clutch gained popularity as an everyday item for the masses, but since then, the clutch has never lost its charm.
It was only in the 1960s that the hippie movement began that hobo bags found their way back to fashion and were widely used by gypsies during the counterculture period.
Belt bags, also known as fanny packs, have been popular at different times throughout history: Renaissance Belt bags were popular during the Renaissance era for their utility and style. Their intricate designs were influenced by trade routes and exploration, which added sophistication to their appearance. 1960s Belt bags were originally designed in the late 1960s for skiers by Australian Melba Stone. 1980s and 1990s Fanny packs were at the height of fashion during this time, especially for people who wanted a hands-free bag for working out. In 1988, Adweek named the fanny pack the product of the year. However, their popularity declined by the mid-2000s. 2010s Belt bags saw a resurgence in popularity in the 2010s, thanks in part to celebrities like Bella Hadid, Rihanna, and A$AP Rocky who wore them as stylish and functional everyday accessories. Belt bags have also become more unisex, with men using them as an alternative to messenger bags. In 2023, Lululemon's Everywhere belt bag was one of the top traffic products from Gen Z creators on the marketing platform LTK
Quiet luxury is a lifestyle that emphasizes understated elegance and refined consumption, while avoiding overt displays of wealth. It's also known as stealth wealth, old money aesthetic, or silent luxury
In the 1950s, straw clutches gained popularity among fashion-minded women. Many featured appliqué or embroidery, and functioned as souvenirs, noted Jill Brady, founder of the website Sackrider Museum of Handbags.
Major names in fashion have been playing around with versions of the bucket bag since the 1940s. One of the first bucket bags to popularize the style, from Hermès, took the name quite literally.
Styling Western handbags for women can add a touch of rustic charm and a hint of the Wild West to your overall look. Whether you're heading out for a casual day in town or attending a country-themed event, here are my picks for designer western inspired bags