Vintage Patent Leather Frame Shoulder Bag in Midnight Navy
Shoulder Bag / Frame Bag, structured vertical rectangular silhouette with a metal frame opening · Unbranded / Mid-tier vintage manufacturer, typical of mid-century department store labels and independent leather goods makers of the era
Collection: Vintage Evening and Occasion Collection, permanent vintage styling
Style
Shoulder Bag / Frame Bag, structured vertical rectangular silhouette with a metal frame opening
Brand
Unbranded / Mid-tier vintage manufacturer, typical of mid-century department store labels and independent leather goods makers of the era
Material
Glossy patent leather exterior with a high-shine finish, stiff inner structure to maintain the rigid rectangular profile, metal kiss-lock frame construction securely stitched to the leather body
Dimensions
Estimated dimensions: Width 25 cm (10 inches), Height 20 cm (8 inches), Depth 7 cm (3 inches), Strap drop 20 cm (8 inches)
Description
An elegant vintage shoulder bag featuring a striking dark navy patent leather finish and a substantial silver-tone metal frame. The structured, upright profile and classic kiss-lock closure evoke timeless mid-century sophistication, making it a sophisticated accessory for evening wear or formal occasions.
Key Features
Rigid vertical rectangular frame construction, high-gloss patent leather material, decorative textured metal clasp, and a structured single shoulder strap
Material & Construction
Glossy patent leather exterior with a high-shine finish, stiff inner structure to maintain the rigid rectangular profile, metal kiss-lock frame construction securely stitched to the leather body
Color & Pattern
Midnight Navy / Dark Navy Blue with a reflective patent sheen, solid plain pattern
Hardware Details
Silver-tone / chrome metal frame with a decorative textured band on the latch mechanism, polished finish with slight vintage patina
Interior Description
Likely lined with faille fabric or smooth synthetic leather lining featuring standard slip pockets and a zip wall pocket typical of mid-century purses
Closure Type
Metal kiss-lock frame closure with a secure snap mechanism
Strap & Handle Details
Single flat patent leather shoulder strap attached via metal rings, fixed length designed for comfortable shoulder or crook-of-the-arm carry
Craftsmanship Details
Clean structural lines, secure frame insertion stitching, neat edge finishing, and symmetrical proportions characteristic of mid-century leather goods manufacturing
Authentication Indicators
Traditional vintage construction markers including heavy-gauge metal framing, hand-finished edge stitching, and period-accurate clasp hardware without modern branding
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely made in Western Europe or the USA, following traditional mid-century millinery and bag-making techniques
Era & Period
Mid-century vintage, likely 1950s to 1960s, indicated by the structured frame silhouette and high-gloss patent leather popular in post-war formal accessories
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s - 1960s production
Cultural Significance
Reflects the formal, put-together dress codes of the mid-20th century where matching accessories and structured silhouettes were standard daily wear for women
Condition Notes
Exterior patent leather appears glossy with minor surface wear consistent with age; metal frame maintains good shine with minimal tarnish; structure remains firm and upright
Value Estimate
Estimated market value range between $50 and $150 USD depending on exact brand provenance and overall vintage condition
Care & Maintenance
Store in a breathable dust bag away from direct sunlight to prevent patent leather color transfer or cracking; clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and condition sparingly with specialized patent leather cleaners
Similar Handbags
Vintage mid-century top handle bags by brands like Napier, Whiting & Davis, or generic unbranded European leather goods from the same era
Interesting Facts
Frame bags of this style were staples of post-war women's fashion, designed to hold strict daily essentials like a compact, lipstick, and coin purse while maintaining a polished, architectural look