DESIGNER HANDBAG LEGACIES
With facinating and rich histories, each of these designers has indelibly left their mark in the world of fashion.
THE VERA BRADLEY LEGACY
How It All Began...
Who would have imagined that over 25 years ago a friendship and simple idea would grow to be the company Vera Bradley is today? So many things have worked in their favor. Having a great idea at the right time. Having a good name -- after Barbara Bradley Baekgaard's mother. And having so many friends who helped launch what has become an American dream.
The Vera Bradley story is a testimony to the classic American Dream. Back in March of 1982, two friends, Patricia and Barbara, were on vacation and awaiting a flight in Atlanta when they noticed a definite lack of feminine-looking luggage. The longtime friends wasted no time in correcting this situation.
Within weeks, these two "movers and shakers" had created a company, named after Barbara’s mother. They were able to market and manufacture their cleverly designed products. The demand for these unique handbags and luggage items has grown and so has Vera Bradley, which is now nationally and internationally recognized.
For over twenty years, Vera Bradley has had a loyal following of customers who not only look forward to our lovely new fabrics and styles that are introduced each season, but who also appreciate the function and quality that is synonymous with our name.
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Vera Bradley remains steadfast in their commitment to excellent quality, dependable service and tasteful, innovative designs.
GABRIELLE "COCO" CHANEL
Born in Saumur France in 1883, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel opened a Parisian millinery shop in the early 1900s. By the 1920s she was a regular fixture in the world of women’s fashion and is credited with revolutionizing the fashion industry. She is often referred to as an artist in the world of fashion.
Chanel is credited with designing the first shoulder bag, debuting in 1955. The Chanel product line has continued to expand into new areas of women’s fashion and is synonymous with quality and luxury.
In 1983 Karl Lagerfeld assumed the creative leadership of the House of Chanel and continues to set the standard for designer quality and creativeness.
THE DOONEY & BOURKE LEGACY
Peter Dooney and Frederic Bourke founded their namesake company in 1975 based upon exceptional ideals and standards that has stood the test of time and set their goods apart from the rest. These standards helped to create the distinctive appearance and unmatched durability that has became their hallmark. Today, Dooney & Bourke is based in Norwalk, CT, and still has Peter Dooney as the President & Designer and the creative force behind his company.
Dooney & Bourke designs are handcrafted with the finest materials. Every piece, from tote bags to wallets, is rich with detail and functionality. Convenient pockets, hooks and secure closures keep your belongings safe yet easily accessible. Dooney & Bourke handbags offer incredible versatility and effortless style.
THE GUCCI LEGACY
Gucci began as a saddlery in 1906, founded by Guccio Cucci in Florence Italy. The car began replacing the horse as the preferred mode of transportation. Guccio began focusing on the luxury luggage market. Still known for it's luxury luggage, Gucci now makes clothes, perfume, shoes, luggage and handbags.
THE COACH LEGACY
Coach as a rich history beginning in the 1940s. 1941 to be exact, as seen in their logo.
Today, Coach handbags fall into three types:
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- In Hand
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- Shoulder
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- Across Body
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THE KATE SPADE LEGACY
Katherine Noel Brosnahan (now Kate Spade) grew up in Kansas City, Missouri.
After college in 1986, she took a job at Mademoiselle Magazine, leaving in 1991 with the title of Senior fashion Editor/Head of Accessories. While working at the magazine, Kate realized that the market lacked stylish, practical handbags and so innocently began designing her own. She put together some sketches, investigated production costs, and created a line of classically shaped bags in satin-finished nylon, as well as interesting colors and fabrics. With her fingers crossed, Kate, along with her partner and husband, Andy Spade, launched "Kate Spade handbags" in January of 1993.
In 1996, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) honored Kate’s classic designs by awarding her America’s new fashion talent in accessories. Kate was honored once again by the CFDA in 1998, as best accessory designer of the year. In 1999, Kate was honored when her handbags were exhibited at the Cooper Hewitt Museum for the first national design triennial, celebrating American design excellence. Kate Spade has continued to receive awards and honors for her Kate Spade designs.
THE MICHAEL KORS LEGACY
coming soon.
THE LOUIS VUITTON LEGACY
coming soon.