Fashion

 

The very first handbags were literally crude pouches fashioned from leaves and animal hide.

However, the first documented use of handbags is from the 14th century Egyptian hieroglyphics which depict men carrying little sacks around the waist. Called pockets, these handbags were hung by thongs at the back of the girdle, and were used mainly by men to carry flint or money.

By the 1400s both men and women were using handbags, which gradually became a status symbol. People would adorn their handbags with jewelry or embroidery to reflect their wealth, and use expensive materials such as silk.