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When steam engine-powered trains and ships allowed people to travel, and the need to carry a few days’ worth of belongings securely came about, suitcases, dressing cases, and hat boxes were born. The humble carpet became a luggage favorite, but its design left no room for distinguishing elites from the masses.
Enter Frenchman Louis Vuitton, who in 1854 released a luxurious, sturdy trunk helmed from iron, leather, and waterproofed canvas, to the delight of the frequently travelling elite.
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As dress silhouettes slimmed down, handbags increasingly became mainstream. Labels Patou and Lanvin invented the sleek clutch, Van Cleef and Arpels created the jewel-encrusted minaudiere, and Dali-inspired Elsa Schiaparelli designed novelty handbags resembling a piano, an umbrella, and a folded newspaper.
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After the war, Christian Dior, Cristobal Balenciaga, and other fashion houses revived the couture scene in post-war, fashion-starved Europe. Coco Chanel released the "2.55," a quilted leather shoulder bag, in February 1955, Hermes named its bag “Kelly” after Grace Kelly carried it to hide her pregnancy, and more and more women yearned for designer handbags as luxury fashion goods.
Regardless of brand, price, or style, one thing’s for certain – the handbag has become indispensable, and it is here to stay.
Tolblanc designs finely crafted handbags and luggage for women to use and accessorize with. News and updates on these chic accessories can be found here.
