There is nothing like the perfect handbag to complete your look. And since there is no such thing as having too many bags, we are here to tell you all about the best vintage bags to add to your collection.
The original handbags dating back centuries ago were merely a tool to carry money around. They eventually evolved into a symbol of wealth and status; it was a privilege to have a bag. Nowadays, bags are a fun accessory for everyone to participate in, as well as a practical means of transporting items like money and cellphones around.
Some of the best and most stylish bags are vintage.
Vintage styles hold up with today’s fashion standards and will help you stand out by having a stylish but totally one-of-a-kind look. Whether you prefer handbags, crossbody bags, snakeskin print, or abstract patterns, there will be a vintage bag to compliment you and your sense of style.
Read on to find out what vintage bags are on trend today that you should add to your collection.
'80s and '90s Abstract Print Bags
The '80s and '90s were two decades defined by flashy colors, abstract art and patterned clothing, as well as loud, clashing outfits. Some of the bags from this time period are no different. Each would make a great addition to your wardrobe, especially if you are nostalgic for the playful aesthetics that made up those decades.
Abstract print bags took many forms. Some bags featured loud patchwork, while other bags were decorated with eye-catching designs and colors.
For a more whimsical look, you might consider a vintage beaded abstract bag from the ‘90s. Beaded bags were a common accessory back in the '90s, but are harder to come by these days. So, if abstract patterns are near and dear to your heart, definitely consider this look.
If you prefer something a little more sophisticated but still containing moments of color and unique patterns, you might consider this abstract snakeskin shoulder bag from the ‘80s. This bag is sleek with the black snakeskin leather but still maintains that fun, colorful pop that makes these bags so stylish. The bag manages to be playful but elegant. It would look great for daily life or even a fancy event.
Patchwork is another fun take on the abstract style of bags from the ‘80s and ‘90s. For instance, this Carlos Falchi patchwork crossbody bag is very playful and stylish. The patches contain outlines of animals and various shapes with different bold colors.
Vintage abstract bags are a great way to add some playful colors and accessories to your wardrobe and are still the peak of fashion in 2021. Definitely consider adding one of these fun bags to your checkout cart today.
Taxidermy Bags
Shopping vintage is always great because it often means you will find garments that are exclusive and rare. These vintage taxidermy bags are truly one of a kind gems that you will not want to pass up.
The idea of owning a taxidermied bag might seem a bit unusual, but rest assured, taxidermy is becoming cool again and is not only defined by mounted animal heads on the walls of taverns. Taxidermy can also be a great way to honor animals if done ethically, and these handmade vintage bags are fashionable and celebrate the lives of the creatures that make up the accessory.
Not only are these bags very much in fashion and one of a kind, but they also just look fantastic and are in mint condition.
For instance, this vintage armadillo shoulder bag from the ‘40s is a stunning taxidermy bag that would pair well with any outfit. It takes the shape of a football, making for a truly original kind of design, and the detailing is intricate and beautiful. The bag itself is remarkable and would be a very worthwhile purchase.
Another common design of the '40s taxidermy bag world are baby alligator taxidermy handbags. This design, though popular in the ‘40s and ‘50s is extremely hard to come by today, so if you are intrigued by the practice of taxidermy, definitely consider snagging one of these rare bags for yourself.
These bags are unique and would look extremely stylish in 2021, especially since animal prints are making a huge comeback. Vintage taxidermy bags are a must-have in 2021.
Snakeskin Bags
Animal prints are making a huge comeback in the fashion world, and you’ll want to join this trend with a cool vintage snakeskin handbag.
Snakeskin is edgier and a great way to be current while still standing out a bit.
But don’t just take our word for it; celebrities have been loving snakeskin print recently too. For instance, you can channel Kim Kardashian West’s affinity toward snakeskin print with the purchase of a fun vintage snakeskin print bag.
Many of the best vintage snakeskin looks come from the ‘70s, so you’ll want to grab one from that iconic decade. Take this vintage '70s snakeskin clutch bag. This bag is a mesh of light browns and has a thin strap to complete the look. It would compliment any outfit but would especially work well with a black turtleneck and black thigh-high boots.
If you want to hop on the snakeskin movement but still prefer something a little more flashy and colorful, give this vintage '80s yellow snakeskin clutch a go. The bag still has the chic snakeskin pattern with a fun twist as the whole bag is bright yellow.
For someone with classic taste, a vintage brown snakeskin shoulder bag will be right for you. Brown bags are always a safe choice, as they tend to match everything. However, this bag is far from predictable: the snakeskin pattern gives it some texture to make it pop.
Hop on the animal print bandwagon with a unique vintage snakeskin bag today.
Snag a Bag
The best way to accessorize is with a cool vintage bag. Bags are technically for practical use, but you always want them to look good and stylish.
The “it” bag can be whatever best appeals to you, but some of our favorite styles that are on-trend in 2021 include snakeskin print, taxidermy bags, and abstract print bags—All of which are best found at your favorite vintage marketplace.
So if these essentials sound like they are for you, or you want to branch out and try a new look, you will want to snag one of these rare vintage bags.
Sources:
Fashion History: Purses and Handbags | Bellatory
How Taxidermy Became Cool Again | Elle.com
Kim Kardashian West Wore Snake Print From Head to Toe in Paris | Vogue