WAIT BUT, HOW DID VANITY BAGS BECOME OUR DAILY MUST HAVES?

WRITTEN BY: ANYA SETH.

September 26, 2024

Remember when lipstick, a cigarette lighter, and a few banknotes were all a woman needed to conquer the world? It was the 1920s, and women were stepping out of their homes and into society, their newfound independence demanding a chic and compact way to carry their essentials. Meet the vanity bag, a luxurious accessory that has been captivating fashionistas for centuries.

But before you run off to add one to your collection for fall/winter 2024, let’s dive into how vanity cases rose to their popularity.

A BRIEF HISTORY

While today we think of vanity cases as the epitome of feminine chic, their origins are traced back to…men. Yes! Vanity case’s origins can be traced back to the 14^th century. Back then, these practical yet ornate cases were designed for royalty and nobility known as Nécessaire de Voyage in France, these luxurious boxes were used to carry everything the noblemen could need while travelling. By the 18th century, they had become a staple for both men and women, known as “dressing cases” filled with compartments for toiletries and grooming tools.

Today, Charles Arpels (co-founder of Van Cleef & Arpels) is to be thanked for revolutionising the modern vanity case revolution. One day, he noticed his girlfriend Florence Gould (the American heiress) using a tin to store her essentials—lipstick, powder, cigarette lighter, and cash. Arpels reimagined this humble tin as an elegant, must-have accessory for the chicest women of the era.

It was in the early 1920’s, however, that the vanity case truly flourished. The twenties saw a surge in the popularity of the vanity case as women embraced the Art Deco aesthetic and sought stylish ways to express their individuality. Following Van Cleef & Arpels, iconic jewellery houses such as Bulgari, Cartier, and Tiffany began crafting exquisite vanity cases embellished with precious gems, intricate engravings, and luxurious materials. A woman’s vanity case became more than just a tool; it evolved into a symbol of freedom, independence, and undeniable style.

THE MODERN VANITY CASE

In 2024, vanity case bags are everywhere—yes! No longer just a retro throwback, today’s vanity cases are all about merging functionality with a fashion-forward edge. These little boxes have been reimagined as statement-making accessories with all the modern trimmings. Top handles, zip-around closures, and a whole lot of room make these vanity case bags a fall/winter must-have.

THE COOLEST VANITY CASES TO SHOP FOR FALL/WINTER 2024

Now, let’s dive into Buro’s top picks for the vanity case bags you need in your life right now for fall/winter 2024, guaranteed to up your accessory game: