Vintage Vogue Custom Suede Flap Bag with Jeweled Kiss-Lock
Flap Crossbody/Shoulder Bag with Integrated Small Pouch · Vogue (Promotional/Editorial Custom Piece); likely manufactured by a high-end mid-century leather goods house for the magazine.
Collection: Special Editorial/Promotion for Vogue Magazine; likely a gift-with-purchase or exclusive reader offering.
Style
Flap Crossbody/Shoulder Bag with Integrated Small Pouch
Brand
Vogue (Promotional/Editorial Custom Piece); likely manufactured by a high-end mid-century leather goods house for the magazine.
Material
Black plush suede exterior with piping around the edges; structured flat construction with an integrated external frame-pocket.
Dimensions
25cm W x 22cm H x 2cm D (approx. 10" x 8.5"); Strap drop approx. 50cm (20").
Description
An elegant mid-century evening accessory that blends whimsy with classic structure. This piece features a unique 'bag-on-bag' design where a small coin-purse-style frame is integrated directly into the front flap, topped with a sparkling rhinestone flower. It represents an era when Vogue magazine was not just a publication but a lifestyle brand that curated specific accessory lines for its readers.
Key Features
The most striking feature is the exposed metal frame kiss-lock located on the center of the outer flap, serving both as a functional pocket and a decorative centerpiece.
Material & Construction
Black plush suede exterior with piping around the edges; structured flat construction with an integrated external frame-pocket.
Color & Pattern
Solid Jet Black; monochromatic textured suede finish with no visible surface pattern.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone metal hardware including grommets for the strap, a traditional metal kiss-lock frame, and a central floral rhinestone jewel embellishment.
Interior Description
Likely lined in black satin or grosgrain fabric; slim single compartment design for a streamlined profile.
Closure Type
Main flap closure with a secondary kiss-lock (purse frame) for the exterior pocket detail.
Strap & Handle Details
Thin black braided cord or passementerie-style strap fed through gold-tone grommets; non-adjustable and fixed with knots or metal aglets.
Craftsmanship Details
Features even piping around the perimeter and secure grommet placement. The hand-set jewel adds a touch of mid-century luxury detail rare in modern lower-tier bags.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of Vogue branding (as per user context), the specific style of the kiss-lock hardware, and the quality of the grommet installation. Precision of the piped edges suggests professional manufacturing.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Made in USA or Italy, produced under license or commission for the Conde Nast publications brand.
Era & Period
Late 1950s to mid-1960s; reflects the 'Ladies who Lunch' era and the height of magazine-branded department store collaborations.
Age Estimate
Estimated production circa 1960-1965 based on the style of the kiss-lock and the passementerie strap.
Cultural Significance
Illustrates the historical trend of 'Publishing Merchandising,' where magazines played an active role in dictating and producing the very products they advertised.
Condition Notes
Suede shows some surface dust and flattening (common with age). The jewelry embellishment appears intact. Hardware shows mild oxidation/patina. Straps look sound but may have lost some elasticity.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150; highly dependent on the historical verification of the 'Made for Vogue' provenance and the condition of the suede.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a dedicated suede brush to lift the nap. Avoid moisture and steam. Store in a dust bag with tissue paper to maintain the flat shape.
Similar Handbags
Compared to Koret of California coin-purse bags or vintage Whiting & Davis frame bags, but unique due to the flat-suede construction and cord strap.
Interesting Facts
Items labeled 'Special for Vogue' or branded with the magazine were often exclusive collaborations with designers like Koret or Evans during the 60s to incentivize magazine subscriptions.
Notes
Made especially for vogue