Cover French-British actor Jane Birkin holds the iconic Hermès Birkin, which was named for her, at a film premiere in Paris Paris (Photo: Getty Images)
French-British actor Jane Birkin holds the iconic Hermès Birkin, which was named for her, at a film premiere in Paris Paris (Photo: Getty Images)
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A decade-by-decade look at the iconic bags that defined fashion history
It can be said that bags are one of the most recognised products a fashion house can offer. Sometimes, they can even be the most accessible. In many ways, a bag symbolises a brand’s identity, capturing its essence in a form that can be shown off and carried everywhere.
Over the decades, certain bags have become icons in their own right, becoming as much fashion statements as they are cultural landmarks. Throughout the decades, certain models have risen above the rest to achieve true legendary status. Most were a product of their time, as they reflected the values and attitudes of the era.
Here, we take a look at some of the most recognised bags of each decade since the 1950s, showcasing designs that truly left a mark on fashion history.
More from Tatler: The It Bags of 2025: This year’s most covetable designer handbags
1950s - Coco Chanel revolutionised handbags in 1955 with the Chanel 2.55, the first bag to feature a chain strap (Photo: Chanel)
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About
Julianna has been interested in leading a literary life since she first read Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess at eight. Before working with Tatler, she was an archive intern at The Center for Fiction in Brooklyn, New York. She is a textbook Pisces who devotes most of her spare time to her crochet projects, watching classic films, and going through her never-ending pile of unread books. She studied creative writing, global literature and art history at Sarah Lawrence College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2022. Toni Morrison, Nora Ephron, Clarice Lispector and Jia Tolentino are among her all-time favourite writers.
Work
Julianna writes about fashion, beauty, sustainability, and the arts. She is always keen on conducting interviews with talented women who are changing the game in their respective fields.
For event invites and story leads, hit her up at julianna.cabili@tatlerasia.com
