Rare Vintage Handbags

On 1stDibs, there are many options to choose from in our collection of rare vintage handbags. Many people prefer Black rare vintage handbags, but fashion is all about individuality — you can find Brown, Beige and more options on these pages. Finding the perfect accessories for you may mean sifting through those that were made during different time periods — popular versions of these were made as early as the 20th Century and a newer one, made as recently as the 21st Century, can also be found on the site. Finding appealing rare vintage handbags such as these — no matter the origin — is easy, but Chanel, Hermès and Gucci each produced popular versions that are worth a look. When shopping for these accessories, you’ll find that there are less available pieces for men or unisex today than there are for women.

Prices for rare vintage handbags can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $147 and can go as high as $74,500, while these items, on average, fetch $3,967.

An integral part of fashion, handbags and purses have been indispensable accessories ever since we began to carry around personal items. Level of craftsmanship, style and shape matters — from coin purses in ancient Greece to early 20th-century opera bags and onward, handbags have evolved considerably over the years to meet our needs and desires, whether or not you happen to be prioritizing functionality over a flashy exterior.

Once, a single “It” handbag ruled each fashion season. No more. Today, lovers of vintage handbags are savvier and have a wider range of shopping options. Nevertheless, classics created by the likes of Louis Vuitton, Dior and Balenciaga still rule.

“It is not a fashion bag — it is a statement bag,” says Mightychic's Debra Kent of Hermès's widely beloved accessories. “When you carry an iconic Hermès bag — Birkin, Kelly, Constance — no one knows how long you have been into this culture or if you are a newbie. Your status is validated immediately.”

First released in 1997, Fendi's Baguette rose to fame along with Carrie Bradshaw, the Sex and the City character portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker. Recently, the design has seen such a resurgence in popularity that Fendi has reissued it.

They are part of design history, so owning a handbag has meaning. As New York–based fashion historian Sarah C. Byrd says, “You have made the choice to invest in this piece because you understand the value of it in the past and in the future to come.”

From a 1980s Chanel black leather quilted mini buckle bag to the rare Hermès Birkin 30cm Himalayan with diamond hardware to a range of 19th-century bags, find a rich variety of vintage and designer handbags and purses spanning numerous brands on 1stDibs — seasonal “It” designation no longer needed.