What’s inside them is especially interesting.
In perhaps one of the most intriguing 100 Years of Style videos yet, Mode.com looks at the evolution of handbags over the last century, exclusively premiering on ELLE.com. Watching the purses get bigger and bigger is fascinating (the 1910s bag could barely fit an iPhone, for reference), but what’s most striking is what’s inside them when they’re emptied.
The 1910s
The 1950s
Makeup and sunglasses change significantly; random knickknacks (think fans, monogrammed handkerchiefs, and walkmans) come and go; and cigarette holders stick around a lot longer than you’d think. Take a look: