BUYERS GUIDE COL L ECT ING LUCI T E HANDBAGS


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Perhaps the most groundbreaking form of Lucite purses were those made from perfectly clear plastic which broke the handbag’s long tradition as a secret sanctum for a ladies personal belongings. Often filled with a scarf to hide their contents and to match a ladies outfit, these transparent bags gave their owners a strikingly modern even bold and brash style. Despite a decade of decadence and popularity, by the 1960s fashions had dramatically changed. The Lucite purse, once the must have accessory for a fashionable lady had become passé and most companies ceased production all together.


Today the surge in popularity for all things mid-century has brought these bags right back to the fore. They have once more become the height of fashion with collectors keen to wear them as much as display them. While a top flight example will set you back upwards of four figures rest assured you can secure a perfectly good example for under £100!


Time to grab that vintage purse and hit the town! TIPS ON CONDITION AND VALUE


There are a few condition factors to keep in mind when shopping for or pricing these items. First, always check them for cracks, especially near the hinges and where handles are attached. Even though Lucite is a very durable substance, it will crack under pressure from continuous use or if it’s dropped.


Make sure the bag isn’t excessively scratched either. Everyday use of some of these hard plastic handbags left them showing quite a bit of surface wear and tear and this most certainly diminishes the value.


Of course, you can pick up a bag showing its age for a bargain price and still enjoy owning it and you won’t have to worry about damaging it if you decide to carry it around.


Some bags without a maker’s label, very common styles and purses combining woven metal along with hard plastic accents are more affordable choices as well.


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