Quilted Purses and Handbags

One can't speak of quilted purses without honoring the prominent designer Coco Chanel. Chanel's quilted purse inspiration came from her popular line of quilted jackets in 1955. Before Chanel introduced quilting to the upper fashion escalon, it was merely used as a method of sewing blankets, clothes and home decorations for country homemakers.

Traditional quilting is done when two layers of cloth are sewn together with a layer of cotton batting in between. The fine stitches align the entire piece of quilting in a symmetrical diamond pattern, so the classic quilted pattern is naturally formed. If you're familiar with fashion, it's easy to see that Chanel, one of the most sophisticated fashion labels to date, loved adding quilting techniques to its handbags.

What was once a considered a homely hobby became the newest fashion trend. Soon equally fabulous designers - like Marc Jacobs and Prada - followed suit, featuring quilting in unique patterns on the arm candy of the rich and famous.

There is one common thread among quilted purses – lack of detailing and an absence of hardware. Quilted purses come made for every woman – from cute girly cylinder handbags and roomy hobo satchels, to tote-like canvas and supple quilted leather. Leather, in particular, makes quilted purses stylish and timeless, while fabric brings the relaxed and casual nature out in your purse. Patterned quilted purses are also great. They are very versatile, as quilted purse patterns often incorporate many colors and can fit in with almost any outfit. You might say that quilted purses are the perfect fashion accessory. If you're handy with a sewing machine, try searching online for a quilted purse pattern and make yourself a new bag!

If you want to get in touch with your crafty nature, look for the following:

The Chanel Patent Double Flap Bag – If the vibrant red doesn't indicate that this isn't your grandma's quilting – then one of the other hot metallic shades will. It's true this Chanel comes in red, dark blue, black, and a combination of black and white. The metallic hues reflect natural light, and the quilted bags are crafted from deliciously soft calfskin and lambskin. Other than the quilting, these bags follow the typical Chanel uniform – a shoulder-length strap fashioned from a silver chain, and the famous CC emblem at the centre of the handbag. The retail price is not available. However a customer representative will provide you additional info if you call the Chanel hotline.

Prada Quilted Barrel Bag – Even if you've never tried your hand at quilting, this cute cylinder-shaped purse by Prada is something to get your needles clicking. Don't let the wide range of sweet colors - light pink, dark purple, pumpkin orange, pine green and pure black (just to name a few) – drive your senses mad. The spring tones and quilted patterns are the perfect compliment to your favorite spring or summer outfit. Wrap your arm around the Prada Barrel purse for about $250 online.