Vintage Beaded Gold Envelope Clutch with Convertible Chain
Clutch / Envelope Bag / Crossbody · Unbranded Vintage (likely Mid-Market or Eveningwear Boutique line) following the Mid-Century aesthetic of designers like Walborg or Lumured
Collection: Standard Eveningwear Collection; likely a non-permanent vintage production from the mid-to-late 20th century.
Style
Clutch / Envelope Bag / Crossbody
Brand
Unbranded Vintage (likely Mid-Market or Eveningwear Boutique line) following the Mid-Century aesthetic of designers like Walborg or Lumured
Material
Glass bugle and seed beads hand-sewn onto a satin/silk-synthetic blend fabric base. Features a structured interior frame and soft-sided construction.
Dimensions
Approx. 24cm W x 14cm H x 3cm D. Strap drop is likely 50-55cm for crossbody wear.
Description
This elegant vintage evening bag features meticulously hand-applied gold bugle and seed beads that create a shimmering, textured surface. Its curved envelope flap adds a touch of mid-century sophistication, while the contrasting silver-tone chain provides modern versatility. Ideal for gala events, weddings, or collectors of period eveningwear, it represents the timeless allure of metallic beadwork.
Key Features
Concentric beaded flap design, vertical bugle bead body, decorative clover-petal chain charms, and a convertible silhouette.
Material & Construction
Glass bugle and seed beads hand-sewn onto a satin/silk-synthetic blend fabric base. Features a structured interior frame and soft-sided construction.
Color & Pattern
Metallic Gold. Patterned with vertical stripes of bugle beads on the body and concentric semi-circular beaded rows on the curved flap.
Hardware Details
Silver-tone metal snake chain strap with small decorative flower/clover petal charms near the hinges; metal interior frame structure.
Interior Description
Gold or champagne satin lining; typically includes one small interior slip pocket for a mirror or lipstick; interior branding would usually be a sewn-in 'Made in Japan' or 'Made in Hong Kong' tag.
Closure Type
Magnetic snap or concealed metal pressure snap under the curved envelope flap.
Strap & Handle Details
Detachable or tuckable silver-tone metal snake chain, allowing the bag to transition from a shoulder/crossbody bag to a handheld clutch.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-applied beadwork with consistent tension; edge finishing features wrapped fabric beneath the beads to hide seams.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry in bead patterns, weight of the glass beads (as opposed to modern plastic), feel of the vintage satin lining, and the specific soldering of the chain links.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Japan or Hong Kong, which were the primary hubs for high-quality hand-beaded accessories during this era.
Era & Period
Vintage 1950s-1960s Revival or Early 1980s Glamour. The beadwork style and snake chain are indicative of mid-century evening accessory trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1980s based on the bead styling and the specific style of the decorative silver chain accents.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in cocktail culture and the shift toward elaborate, labor-intensive decorative accessories for evening social life.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Beads appear mostly intact; minimal evidence of loose threads. Hardware shows consistent luster with very minor surface scratches.
Value Estimate
$45 - $125 USD depending on the presence of an original designer label and the completeness of the beadwork.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with jewelry that might snag threads; store flat in a dust bag to prevent bead loss; do not use liquid cleaners — use a soft, dry cloth for dust.
Similar Handbags
Walborg beaded clutches (often have more floral motifs), vintage Whiting & Davis metal mesh bags (similar shape but different material), or contemporary beaded bags from Staud.
Interesting Facts
Hand-beaded bags from this era were often considered 'affordable luxury' and were the standard accessory for debutante balls and formal cocktail parties.
Notes
Termed