An effortlessly elegant handbag that perfectly captures the understated glamour of the 1930s.
Crafted in a softly draping floral fabric with the feel of lightweight viscose or rayon, this beautifully made vintage handbag features a delicate all-over botanical print in muted shades of olive green, russet, teal, ochre and coral. The rich, autumnal palette gives it a timeless quality that feels just as wearable today as it did almost a century ago.
The standout feature is its wonderfully sculptural Art Deco clasp. Made from an early moulded plastic—likely celluloid or a similar period material rather than Bakelite or Lucite—the ingenious mechanism opens by turning the central catch, allowing the frame to release smoothly from either side. Combined with the slender black leather handles, it creates a striking balance of decorative design and practical craftsmanship.
The softly gathered silhouette sits comfortably in the crook of the arm, while the light fabric keeps the bag feeling elegant rather than bulky. It won’t accommodate all of today’s everyday essentials, but it’s the perfect size for carrying the necessities to lunch, dinner, a vintage event or autumn wedding.
The interior is lined in cream cloth and remains in good vintage condition, with some faint colour transfer visible to the lining consistent with age. Overall, it is a wonderfully preserved piece that showcases the refined design and innovation of the Art Deco era.
A beautifully understated handbag for anyone who appreciates early twentieth-century fashion and accessories that quietly make a statement.
Details
- Vintage floral day handbag
- Likely 1930s
- Soft floral printed fabric, likely viscose/rayon blend
- Black leather double handles
- Art Deco moulded clasp with rotating opening mechanism
- Cream cloth lining
- Structured frame construction
- Good vintage condition
- Some light age-related colour transfer to the interior lining consistent with age
