The Big History of the Tiny Purse

Before and for most of the 18th century, large purses were synonymous with work bags. They were primarily a convenient means of transporting materials, usually for sewing and embroidery. While they looked like works of art, they were more of a statement showcasing one’s accomplishments and industry rather than one’s authentic style.

Mini bags, on the other hand, were designed to be unisex and to hold money—nothing else. They’re better compared to wallets than to actual bags. Back then, men had pockets of various sizes sewn into their coats, waistcoats, and whatnot. As for women, they had detachable pockets inside their wide hoop petticoats. These pockets were separated from the dress, worn around the waist and underneath the gown, and they were accessed through slits intentionally placed in the gown’s seams. In modern times, you can think of these pockets as a form of fanny packs. With enough room for their things, people only needed a purse for cash.

The tail end of the aforementioned period saw a dramatic change in women’s fashion, particularly led by the French Revolution back in 1789. Columnar gowns called for slim lines, signalling a goodbye to bulky underpinnings. While men stayed with purses, women moved on to small handheld bags that were often designed with tassels, fringes, and embroideries. They have become essential accessories, and they were referred to as reticules.

The ladies began baring their arms and their hands, and these ornamental carriers highlighted that. The gowns that rose to popularity during this time were designed to emulate classic statuary, featuring sheer fabrics and body-accentuating silhouettes. Surely, large pockets underneath them just wouldn’t do.

Netting purses was a famous pastime. These tiny purses became a reflection of taste and patience, being adorned by beautiful miniature mosaics, pastoral scenes, and even portraits. However, this time was not as fashionably dreamy as it may sound, for people saw an opportunity to mock not just the pieces, but also the women who loved them.

“Reticule” was derived from the word “reticulum,” which is the Latin term for “net,” but for satirists, “reticule” was a prompt to call it “ridicule.” As early as then, the disparaging term—also adopted by magazines at that time—showed how many people saw it as useless and insubstantial, although it was essentially a new way for women to express themselves.

The split opinions on micro bags that we hear today are not new. While some called them the ridicule, others referred to them as “indispensables,” viewing their small interiors as spaces that carried the items they simply can’t go a day without.

These contrasting depictions were roads that led fashion to separate directions, capturing the ambivalence in a post-revolutionary climate. Some argued that the surge of tiny purses was momentary, accelerated by the increasing lack of pockets, whose presence people longed and felt nostalgic for. The comeback of micro bags in the 21st century, however, tells us otherwise.

Mini bags are good travel companions, and Bianca De Vera is a testament to that. No need for heavy baggage when exploring a new city because a tiny-but-mighty purse already houses your essentials. The PBB alum opted for the Louis Vuitton Petite Malle, featuring the classic monogram canvas with black calfskin trim.

It’s no secret that Ashtine Olviga has a penchant for micro bags. Part of her collection is the JW Pei Abacus Mini. With a black base covered in crystals, it’s a small bag that makes a big statement.

Belle Mariano’s OOTD proves that a monochromatic ensemble can be elevated by a little pop of color. Her choice is the Bottega Veneta Sardine in Barolo. With its distinguishable burgundy hue and its gold metallic handle, it easily adds form and character to any look.

Did you know that the Loewe Puzzle comes in mini, too? Kathryn Bernardo dons the origami-inspired carrier in a feminine and romantic outfit. Its emerald tones provide harmony with nature, and its angular silhouette gives a touch of structure.

The Preview Ball 2025 saw an abundance of head-turning bags, Camille Prats’ micro bag from Zarah Juan included. The quirky piece was designed to look like a television, referencing not only the actress’ career and craft, but also the country’s love for all things entertainment.