As you may know, I have a definite thing for retro and vintage handbags and purses, invariably picked up at the thrift shop.
One subcategory within this group: vintage carpet bags.
We're not talking old-fashioned Victorian carpetbags - but rather ones from the 1950s to 70s. This was my first purchase and if memory serves it was $40. I'm guessing the era is 1970s (bought at The Bead Goes on in Toronto - a great place to pick up a vintage croc bag in wonderful shape).
True, I do pay more for my carpet bags than I do my other vintage purses - namely because they're hard to find in vintage and thrift stores. I never would have found this Missoni-esque purse in mint condition at the thrift shop.
Instead I found it last year at the Toronto Vintage Costume Jewellery Club Show & Sale for about $60. That's the most I've ever paid for a bag, but it was worth it.
I found this 1950s/60s one at a subsequent TVCJC Show & Sale, for only $15 or $20, but it's not in as good condition. The leather is peeling back on one of the handles and it's a wee bit stinky.
My most recent acquisition: a smaller purse in lovely bright hues, no smell, $19.99 at Canadian Thrift Stores (CTS) on Queen St. West.
Do I ever wear these purses? Rarely. Like my other vintage bags they adorn the walls of my apartment. Does that make me a true collector?
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