Carolina Herrera Top Handle Bags

When it comes to vintage Carolina Herrera handbags and shoulder bags — including the timeless Matryoshka — as well as clutches and tote bags in canvas, suede and leather, the veteran designer's finesse and stylized approach are easily recognizable.

Long before her purses and satchels carried the now-celebrated “CH” logo, Herrera was dressing models for splashy runway shows in New York City.

Encouraged by her close friend and former Vogue magazine editor, Diana Vreeland, Herrera made her fashion debut in 1981. While her career actually began in the 1960s, when she worked in a publicity role for Emilio Pucci — the iconic clothing and housewares maker — the Venezuelan designer was at first interested in designing textiles.

Herrera took Vreeland’s advice and launched a clothing line, and while journalists in the fashion press were initially unsure of Herrera’s longevity, she quickly became synonymous with sophistication for her glamorous evening dresses, which eventually earned accolades in magazines, prime real estate in Manhattan boutique windows and a heavyweight client roster that included Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. These days, marquee names such as Michelle Obama and Meghan Markle are understandably known enthusiasts of the brand.

A variety of popular vintage and contemporary Carolina Herrera bags, ranging from compact and casual purses to versatile and luxurious handbags, can be found on 1stDibs.