Handbags Transform: How the Once Simple Accessory Became a Fashion Statement

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Handbags have evolved beyond just being practical items; they now play a key role in shaping fashion identity. They showcase the unique style and dreams of their owners, while also reflecting the cultural, social, and economic backdrop of their era. In a chat with Lifestyle magazine, Mohit Jain, the founder and CEO of Miraggio, Seema Gandhi, the founder of Kacko Lifestyle, and Rohit Agarwal, the founder and business head of Urban Space, shared that modern bags serve as a true extension of a person's character and beliefs.

Handbags: Then and Now

Mohit Jain remarked, “Handbags used to be just practical items, quiet partners in a life shaped by tradition. However, as women broke barriers and changed the narrative, these accessories evolved from simple tools to bold statements. Nowadays, a handbag stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment, reflecting a woman's journey, aspirations, and distinctive style.”

Rohit Agarwal pointed out that handbags have shifted from being purely functional to becoming fashion statements, and are now seen as an extension of one’s personality. He noted, “You can easily gauge someone's character just by their bag — whether they’re minimalist, adventurous, or indulgent.”

A perfect example is filmmaker Karan Johar, who has a passion for his designer bags:

From practical use to a fashion statement

Seema Gandhi pointed out that socioeconomic factors have significantly influenced the development of handbags. She mentioned, “Cultural changes and fashion trends have also played a vital role. Handbags originally served a practical purpose in ancient times, mainly for carrying items. During the medieval period, embroidery became a key design element in handbag production.”

She went on to say, “The Industrial Revolution further enhanced handbags, making them more portable and suitable for travel. However, the true transformation occurred in the 20th century when major brands entered the handbag market. Since then, exclusivity has become a major selling point, with top labels focusing on both functionality and style.”

Changing up a group performance

Mohit emphasized how a statement handbag can elevate an outfit, stating, "We design versatile and practical accessories that fit effortlessly into the various stages of a woman's life, enhance a bold look, and allow her to showcase her personality, showcasing her strength, her journey, and her lasting impact on the world."

Greater emphasis on sustainability

Seema Gandhi pointed out that today's handbags showcase the social class of the person carrying them, acting as a 'symbol of their status in society.' Looking ahead, she believes that “sustainability will take center stage as the handbag industry becomes more committed to its impact on the environment and society at large.”

Rohit chimed in, noting that 'the biggest trend' he's observing is a growing support for sustainability through handbags. He mentioned, “People are sending a clear message about their concern for nature, and brands are responding by creating stunning sustainable bags that are also highly functional.”