Whatever your style is — ethnic, chic, classic or funky — searching for that perfect handbag to compliment your dress and jewellery can be mission impossible. With a variety of materials, models and shapes, bags have evolved into a status symbol, a  fashion statement, and a personal expression. They have become part of people's lifestyles — essential for commuting, fashion, and activities. They keep our things safe, organised, easy and comfortable. Calling bags or clutches as one of the most-sought-after fashion accessories, will not be an exaggeration at all.

Designer labels

It is a fact that we don't buy bags or handbags because of its functionality only. We buy bags that match with our style and personality. And that’s where the designer bags come in. Today's top designer bags are from the houses of Coach, Prada, Fendi, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc. When you pay big bucks for a designer bag, you're actually paying for the name, and also the fine craftsmanship. With a designer bag, you can be sure that it was made using high quality material. Some of the really expensive designer bags are handmade.

Beware of fakes

Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery they say and if so, Kate Spade, Gucci, Coach and Dior must be very flattered! There are many replica handbags flooding the market . Some of these designer fakes  even carry the label of the company they are imitating!

The Indian scene

Indian fashion and accessory designers are showing their talent and creativity in making bags and purses which suit the dress, occasion and of course, the budget. Surbhi, a NIFT graduate and an accessory designer with an eye for the aesthetic and flair for design says, “Embroidered bags are very much in demand. Embellished with swarovski multi-crystal work, sequins, kundan work and other forms of embroideries, these bags are perfect to compliment a bride’s attire. These can be coordinated with a sari or a lehenga and are therefore, a must for a bride’s wedding trousseau.” Adding glitz and glamour to the bridal collection are also satin and silk purses in several exotic patterns and colours — bright orange, fuchsia, pink and turquoise.

Most Indian designers are experimenting with silk bags with brocade, lace and even pearls and gemstones. Combine with sturdy beaded handles, these beautiful handbags give the style and uniqueness to the owner. If the range isn’t vast enough to choose from, then you can also go for custom-made bags where you can choose your own style, size, fabric, colour and design for that ‘perfect’ bag. “Most women want a very roomy and sturdy handbag with a slip pocket inside to protect personal items and money. These are a perfect match for daily and casual wear as well,” says Surbhi.

Bagful of facts

The very first mention of bags is found in 14th century literature. Pouches were attached to what were called ‘girdles’ which were fastened to the waist of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Embroidery and jewels adorned these articles and were used to show status — the richer the person, the more elaborate the bag.

In 18th century Europe, handbags were called ‘reticules’. Women had a different bag for every occasion and every fashion magazine had arguments on the proper carrying of these purses. In the reticules one would find rouge, face powder, a fan, a scent bottle, visiting cards, a card case, and smelling salts.

The term ‘handbag’ first came into use in the early 1900s and generally referred to hand-held luggage bags usually carried by men.