Bags have come a long way over the years. What were once purely functional accessories for hauling around essentials have evolved into sought-after fashion pieces that are perfect for making a statement. Wondering how those first formative handbags transformed into the statement-making accessories we know and love today? Let’s take a closer look at the evolution of everyday bags over the last hundred years.
The Early 20th Century: Functionality First
The turn of the 20th century heralded the arrival of what could be called the first modern-day handbags. Contemporary designer favorites like Gucci and Vuitton were just some of the manufacturers producing at this time, although the brands were a far cry from their current positioning as leaders in haute couture.
Back then, these brands were more occupied with producing leather goods like saddles and harnesses, with ladies’ handbags something of an afterthought. Unsurprisingly, these rudimentary bags were rather utilitarian in design, with cow leather used to produce basic designs in brown and black. However, other brands like Hermes would begin experimenting with more luxurious alternatives, with ostrich and crocodile leather proving popular. Nonetheless, designs remained relatively simple, with functional designs and unadorned details.
The Rise of Work Bags and Briefcases
The contemporary successor to the humble satchel, the briefcase is a staple of workwear wardrobes and a go-to accessory for the office. The first briefcase as we recognize it today arrived in the 1820s, which was soon followed by design evolutions like the Gladstone bag. By the 1850s, more familiar handbag designs had hit the market, enjoying mass appeal with professionals.
The meteoric rise of the briefcase is hardly a surprise. This work-friendly bag was loved for all the same reasons it is today. The sturdy leather material makes it a long-lasting and attractive choice, while the document-friendly dimensions make it a go-to for the office.
Tote Bags for Utility in the 1940s
The post-war years of the 1940s saw a brief return to utility, with more austere designs replacing the emerging designer handbags of previous years. It was around this time that tote bags became widely available, with these hard-wearing accessories becoming favored essentials for carrying groceries and other odds and ends.
The 1950s to 1970s: Fashion Meets Function
After a short-lived economic lull during the 1940s, prosperity returned in a big way in the 1950s. This was reflected in fashion and accessories, with a huge upsurge in bag labels and designs. During this time, bags were becoming increasingly functional. Although leather remained a popular choice of material for bag manufacturing, more durable alternatives like synthetic fabrics and plastic were also being used.
During the 1960s, handbag styles underwent some of their most dramatic design changes. Formality dominated the start of the decade, with bags chosen to coordinate with other accessories. By the end of the 1960s, however, more dynamic designs were falling into favor. New fabrics, colors, and textures were in high demand, with animal and geometric motifs becoming more of a staple during this era. Finally, bags were as much a fashion item as they were an essential accessory.
When it comes to fashion, the 1970s are often considered a defining decade and this is definitely true of bags. Both casual carryalls and more formal varieties were being redesigned to serve as much as a style statement as a functional piece.
Inspired by the hippie movement of the 70s, bohemian-style bags were particularly sought-after, with leather and suede a common choice of material. Mesh bags also came into prominence, with these cheap and cheerful designs a standard choice for casual dressing. More luxurious alternatives also arrived during the decade, with consumers falling in love with velvet and fringed accents.
The Birth of Designer Handbags
While classic brands like Hermès and Vuitton were creating iconic handbags as early as the 19th century, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the designers now synonymous with high-end luxury started putting out bags that were functional, fashionable and above else, affordable. In 1955, Chanel unveiled its famous 2.55 handbag, which quickly became a style icon. Other brands like Hermès would follow with beloved favorites like the Kelly and Birkin bags, which are still selling well to this day.
Tote Bags Enter Mainstream Culture
While tote bags attracted plenty of fans in the decades after the 1940s, they wouldn’t become truly mainstream until the 1980s. During this era, many stores were getting in on the action, creating bespoke totes that showcased their brand and served as free marketing.
The 1980s and 1990s: Bigger, Bolder Bags
Totes weren’t the only bag to transform in the 1980s. Many designs evolved during this decade in response to pop culture and high fashion. Bold statement colors were the new normal while statement-making embellishments became a staple. By the 1990s, tastes had changed considerably, with bag designs boasting a more minimalist, yet functional form. Neutral colours were the preference, with understated accents the new normal.
The Tote Bag Boom
The first tote bag was created by L.L. Bean in 1944 and was originally designed as an ice bag. Users quickly embraced this carryall classic, with the inaugural L.L. Bean’s Boat and Tote Bag swiftly amassing a legion of fans. While the bag was originally designed to lugg ice around, users quickly realized it was good for hauling all manner of things, leading to it being adopted as an everyday accessory.
The Era of Backpacks and Multi-Purpose Bags
Today, functionality has once again returned to the fore. While totes and other handbag designs remain popular, the ready-to-go backpack delivers when it comes to practicality. Combining user-friendly features and enhanced ergonomics, the backpack is the obvious choice for students and professionals looking to travel in comfort. The messenger is another solid choice for the office or classroom, combining easy-to-wear style with functional details.
The 2000s: Bags Go High-Tech
By the 2000s, manufacturing advances had made designer-level handbags more accessible than ever. While top-of-the-line labels might have remained beyond the financial reach of many, countless other brands were producing similar designs that were largely indistinguishable from the real thing. Meanwhile, a host of new bag styles enjoyed a surge in popularity, with the baguette bag, bowling bag, and underarm bag all enjoying healthy sales.
Tote Bags Reinvented for Sustainability
While the tote bag has never really gone out of fashion, these classic carryalls returned to the spotlight in the 2000s as an eco-friendly alternative to paper and plastic bags. Totes became a common sight in shopping malls and grocery stores, helping tackle the serious issue of plastic pollution.
The 2010s to Today: Balancing Style and Sustainability
Bags have continued to evolve over the years, with contemporary consumers now able to choose between a multitude of different designs. Nowadays, you’ll find bags in a range of diverse silhouettes, while everything from the slouch to the saddle bag remains sought after.
What’s more, thanks to advancements in material design and manufacturing, consumers don’t have to choose between timeless design and being environmentally friendly. The rise of vegan leather and sustainable materials means it’s easy to go cruelty-free when selecting a new accessory. Meanwhile, with more ethically made bags on the market, consumers can be more socially conscious when assembling their wardrobe essentials.
Tote Bags as Everyday Essentials
If you’re looking for an ever-ready accessory, toes are a cleaner winner. These easygoing staples are perfect for casual dressing, while smarter totes can be synched with workwear for an effortless ensemble for the office. What’s more, thanks to their durable design, totes are ideal for running errands like trips to the grocery store, while their generous capacities make them a good option for travel.
Why Tote Bags Have Stood the Test of Time
The tote bag isn’t going anywhere fast. Favored for their generous size and easygoing aesthetics, totes are the perfect accessory for just about any outfit. As far as functionality is concerned, nothing comes close to the classic tote. Meanwhile, with a rainbow of vibrant colors and a multitude of prints and finishes to choose from, it’s easy to upgrade any look with a tote slung over your shoulder.
The Hulken Tote Bag: Redefining Versatility and Convenience
Are you thinking about adding a tote to your accessory collection? Even though there are plenty of premium choices on the market, the Hulken rolling tote stands out from the crowd. With its generous dimensions, it’s a handy helper for errands and travel, while its understated aesthetic makes it a great pick for everyday adventures.
Made from industrial-grade materials, it also delivers on durability. It’s also one of the most travel-friendly totes out there, with its stainless steel swivel wheels able to zip across all kinds of surfaces. Perfect if you’re looking to get somewhere in a hurry with all of your essentials.
Order Your Hulken Today
Ready to join the tote revolution? Why not add a Hulken rolling tote to your collection today. You can pick up yours from the Hulken online store, or explore the collection at the Amazon storefront.
