Handbags have become a basic accessory in today’s world. Not only does it come in different styles and designs, it also has its practical uses. While designer handbags are all the rage in fashion, have you ever wondered how it became an important fashion statement?

Throughout history, pouches and purses have been used by both men and women, but the term handbag didn’t exist until the early 1900s. It was initially carried by men as hand-held luggage before being popularised for women. Soon after, women could choose between different bag designs and came with matching robes and muffs to wear with them. With the revolutionization of fashion in the 1920s, handbags no longer needed to match perfectly with outfits, making them stand out in fashion. It was common for women to carry dolls with matching handbags along as a miniature companion.

By the 1950s, handbags were catapulted into cult status and paved the road for designers to shine. Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Chanel capitalized on the growing culture of accessorizing and color-coordinating. The rise of youth culture and women’s movement in the 1960’s broke down the notion of these classical designs. Rules of correct dressing slowly dissipated as fashion transitioned into the age of informality.

Fast forward to today, there is an array of handbag styles and designs to suit almost anyone. After years of being associated with femininity, handbag designs have started to appeal men with some even dubbing it the “man-bag”. With great adaptability and staying power, both men and women still enjoy the extraordinary versatility of handbags today!

While designer handbags have fashion aesthetics and are functionable, safety has become an important factor in handbag designs too, especially when travelling. Safety and style shouldn’t be mutually exclusive, which is what makes the Pacsafe Citysafe™ CS200 anti-theft handbag a great design, especially for those who travel. With Carrysafe® straps and eXomesh® protection, it prevents bag slashers from running away with your valuables while looking stylish!

If you are looking for different styles of handbags with safety features, have a look at other Pacsafe handbags.