A Purse By Any Other Name...

When I was a youngster, the women in my family usually referred to their "pocketbook" rather than "purse" or "handbag." Nowadays, I almost always call that carrying-container brimful of what I deem necessities for a day out and about... a purse.

Image courtesy of NYPL Digital Gallery

I am often fascinated by words and how their usage changes over time. Today, the word purse has decidedly feminine connotations, but there was a time when a purse was simply a small bag or pouch, usually leather, in which to carry money. A man could have a purse and no one would bat an eye... and a woman could carry a purse and not end up with bursitis in her shoulder.  ;)

I am also fascinated by purses and how their styles change over time. If only I could choose one era of handbags to love... there are just too many wonderful styles - from the beautiful mesh bags of the late 1800s to the quirky "telephone cord" purses of the 1930s to the tailored Kelly bags of the 1950s. Really, can a girl ever have too many handbags?

Here, in celebration of that accessory of necessity by whatever name you prefer, are just a few delightful examples available from four of my favorite Etsy shops...

From Stella Ranae Vintage, this adorable Puppy and Kitty Purse

 Art Deco Dame offers this fabulous Beaded & Sequin Clutch

From Vintage Pickle, this Shiny Gold Woven Box Purse

And FuzzyLizzie offers this lovely Victorian Miser's Purse

So, what is your favorite era of purse, pocketbook, or handbag?

A Great Big Thank You!

...to ArtDecoDame and Lady Luck!

A little while back, ArtDecoDame at Pretty Little Things blog hosted a fabulous giveaway to celebrate reaching 300 followers... and, oh my goodness, Lady Luck smiled on Miss CherryBubbles! My name was drawn as the winner! Now, just see all the swell vintage things that arrived in the mail one day...

The black floral hat is just gorgeous and the petal hat is too fun! I've used the lovely corde purse for a couple special occasions and worn the bracelets (separately, I might add) several times to work or just about town. But, oddly enough, I think my favorite thing is the leafy handkerchief. I'm a complete sucker for anything with autumn leaves!

Thank you, ArtDecoDame! You're the most!


Sophisticated lady? No, but she plays one on tv.


Now, hold still, Mr. Lucky, and blow.