September 19, 2009

New Subsection Added to Our Store - Special Selections - Convertible Handbags

Handbags that have more then one personality are listed in our regular HANDBAG Section of 20th Century Finds online vintage store.  They also have their own Subsection under our SPECIAL SELECTIONS Section of the store.  Some have removable and reversible covers, or expand to a new shape, or can turn inside-out to reveal a different look and color.  The concept for these bags began in the 1800's based on U.S. patents we found that were issued for handbags with removable and exchangeable covers.  Here is a sample of what we have in our store.   


Close-To-Mint Condition 
$120.00



Circa 1950's or earlier reversible handbag in black and white thermoplastic caviar beads.  A rare find and one that is in close-to-mint condition.  Handles are made of metal and are hinged at the ends, allowing the handles to move in a 180 degree manner for turning the bag inside out.  A stylish conversation piece. 

SIZE:  H:  12";  Measured from bottom to top of opening of bag, 8".  L:  9" across top of frame.  Rectangular base:  10" x 3.25".  Expands up to 5" and more.

CONDITION:  Excellent.  Close-to-mint.  No missing beads on either side.  No stains, tears or rips.  Seams are in great condition.  Simply beautiful.  


Reversible Handbag Clutch in Golden Cream & Black Leather
Minty Condition
$85.00

 
 

Elegant clutch with a split personality.  It is a clutch with the most gorgeous golden-cream-colored leather.  It has a light-golden iridescent sheen.  Alternatively it is a sleek and modern black leather clutch.  In close-to-mint condition as it can get.  Never used.  No label.  Clasp is an elongated bar that goes over a metal ball centerpiece.  Works well. 

SIZE:  H:  6.25".  L:  10" across top; 10.5" across bottom; 12.5" across widest point.  W:  up to 4"

CONDITION:  Excellent.  New Vintage.  Minty condition.  No issues found upon inspection.  See pictures in our store.






We love well-made handbags that have more than one personality.  This one is perfect for a Fall weekend trip.  Wonderful thick wool/tweed black fabric and a single PVC handle.  New-with-tags vintage.  Never used and nicely stored.  

The manufacturer's tag reads that this is a French Style Double Duty Carry-All and Handbag, Styled by Trina, Inc.   It also explains that the bag's lining, which you see in Picture 5, is lined with nice rubber.  The purse section has a zipper closing for convenience and safety.  "Folded, it's a purse.  Unsnap, it's a carry all."  Made in U.S.A.  Our guestimate is circa 1960's.

Two usable compartments when folded and unfolded.  One side remains the same size at all times.  7" high by 9" wide, with a zipper closure.  Include the handle, and it is  12" high.  The other comparment is also 7"x9".  Unfolded it is 13.25" x 9".  Include the handle, and the bag is 18.5" high.  Both sides expand out several inches.  Size measurements are approximate. 

CONDITION:  New.  Mint.  No signs of wear.  Metal components are brass.  Michigan's Gilmore Brothers Department Store's label is in the lining. 

Trina, Inc. produced and sold fashion accessories, from  bags, mirrors and umbrellas, from at least 1959 (based on patent and court records) and Gilmore Brothers was selling merchandise even earlier. 


L and M Evening Bag - Longer Length
With Removable & Reversible Black Faux Alligator & Brown Vinyl Cover
Bags By Edwards 1957-Patent Handbag
PRICE:  $70.00



The classic removable/reversible cover handbag made by Lowy & Mund, Inc., a popular 20th Century handbag company.  Circa late 50's to early 60's.  U.S. Patent No. 2,809,685 was issued in Oct. 1957 to Edward R.  Lowy the inventor of this bag.  It is called the Handbag Having Removable Cover in the patent application.  This bag has three different personalities.  It's a slimmer black faille fabric bag without the cover.  Use the cover with the shiny black faux-alligator vinyl side.  Or use the other side,  a sleek and smooth brown vinyl.   "L and M," "Bags By Edwards," "Made in U.S.A." label.  Interior is black fabric.  Used but clean.  One open pocket.  Use as a clutch, or take out the attached gold cord chain to carry it on your arm.  Chain drop to top of frame is 4.5".

SIZE:   H:  5.75" no cover;  6" with cover.  L:  10" across top; 11" across bottom. This is longer than the other two L and M removable cover bags we are selling. Size measurements are approximate.

CONDITION:  Very good to excellent.  Few signs of wear, which is mainly to one side of the metal frame of the cover.  See pictures.  This style of handbag is featured in a published 2005 collectors' book on handbags and priced up to $110 in good  condition.

We also have two other L and M bags with removable covers.

Classic L and M Evening Bag With Removable & Reversible Cream Brocade & Black Fabric Cover
Bag By Edwards 1957-Patent Handbag
PRICE:  $85.00

Classic L and M Evening Bag With Removable & Reversible Gold Vinyl & Black Fabric Cover
L and M 1957-Patent Handbag
PRICE:  $70.00
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