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On The Origin Of The Handbag

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In 1859, Charles Darwin wrote a book, called "The Origin Of Species". In it, he describes the process of evolution- the gradual change over years, that brought about the various creatures we see today. In effect, what he had written was the general life story of every species, spelt out in such a way that the similarities are clear.

What has probably not occurred to you, though, is that other evolutions and histories can also be spelled out in such generalities. To take one example, chose totally at random, of course, consider the humble handbag. If you take a look at the history of the major fashion designers, you'll se some surprising similarities. Some common threads, that run through them all. And this is how I come to write this article, and call it... the Origin of Handbags!

Begin with a dream. Most of the major labels, such as Chloe, Fendi, or Krizia began with a single woman opening a shop. Of course, not every major label begins this way. Gucci, for example, began with a man opening a shop. Sometimes they sell clothing, sometimes not, but inevitably the founder discovers a sense of fashion.

Shortly after their shop begins to succeed, the founder begins creating new and original fashions. At this point, they have a small shop in a big city, and begin to display their wares. Many people crash and burn here, or simply fail to attract the right attention, but for the soon-to-be major label designer, they quickly draw the attention of the cities fashion-conscious. Here, excellent business sense, and a significant amount of persistence, are needed to lift them to the top.

Although they may struggle in the beginning, as Guess did to get their jeans in stock, or are as instantly successful as Ralph Laurens ties, as soon as the public discovers their unique and stunning fashion they very quickly become famous. The founder of the company lives to see their brand recognized internationally, and very soon decides to expand.

At this point, the handbag enters. The company, being now fairly well known, starts to expand into other areas of fashion, including fashion accessories. Among these, are of course, the handbags. Each individual designer creates their own unique look and style, to match the style of their clothing, and they begin to sell handbags.

Whatever style you particularly favour, be it the elegance of Prada or the class of Diego Rocha, you can hardly argue that they are very different, and convey a unique impression. Everyone needs to wear clothes, but handbags are optional, and so are open for whatever incredible inventiveness the artist can devise.

Eventually, the founder of the label passes away, and control of the company goes to their children. Sometimes, as did Aldo and Rudolfo Gucci, they fight for control. In other cases, like the descendants of Adele Fendi, they cooperate and work together. Whatever happens, the label itself always stays within the family, and they watch as sales soar.

Once they have achieved international renown, not to mention uncountable awards, there is no where left to rise to- they are already at the top. By now, of course, the brand is a commonly spoken name, and everyone knows them. Usually the founder as, well, although not always. Could anyone, ever, hope to rival the fantastic designs and glamorous life of Roberto Cavalli? I hardly think so, save perhaps, by another designer...

Thus I finish my review of the origin of the handbag, and the life of the label that creates it. As you've seen, it's a pretty simple blueprint, and really serves to highlight the similarities between the different design companies. Although, I am left to wonder, does anything else share this same similarity?