Vintage 1940s Ruched Navy Crepe Pouch Bag with Rose Filigree Frame
Pouch or Reticule style with a small Frame Bag closure. Silhouette is a gathered tear-drop shape. · Unbranded/Generic Luxury Boutique or Atelier; Contemporary Tier (Mid-20th Century Heritage)
Collection: Mid-Century Evening Wear Accessory (Circa WWII/Post-War era)
Style
Pouch or Reticule style with a small Frame Bag closure. Silhouette is a gathered tear-drop shape.
Brand
Unbranded/Generic Luxury Boutique or Atelier; Contemporary Tier (Mid-20th Century Heritage)
Material
Navy-blue synthetic crepe or rayon fabric exterior; hand-gathered (ruched) construction at the neck; structurally soft body with a rigid metal top-frame.
Dimensions
Width: 20cm (8"), Height: 25cm (10") including handle, Depth: expandable due to soft construction, Strap Drop: 12cm (5")
Description
This elegant vintage evening bag features deep navy fabric artfully gathered into a voluminous pouch. The standout feature is its ornate, square-framed closure depicting a blooming rose in bas-relief brass. Its soft, tactile handle and sophisticated color make it a quintessential example of mid-century cocktail attire.
Key Features
3D Rose filigree metal frame; ruched neck assembly; padded fabric handle; contrasting rigid hardware against a soft textile body.
Material & Construction
Navy-blue synthetic crepe or rayon fabric exterior; hand-gathered (ruched) construction at the neck; structurally soft body with a rigid metal top-frame.
Color & Pattern
Navy Blue; solid color finish with a matte texture characteristic of vintage heavy crepe fabric.
Hardware Details
Antiqued gold-tone or brass-plated metal frame; features a 3D embossed rose floral centerpiece and scrolling filigree borders; small ball-hinge kiss lock clasp.
Interior Description
Likely lined in navy or cream satin/taffeta; typically contains one small slip pocket for a mirror or lipstick; no visible branding based on typical items of this era.
Closure Type
Kiss-lock / Snap frame closure; secured with a dual-ball clasp atop the rose-embossed metal frame.
Strap & Handle Details
Single padded fabric top handle; matching navy crepe material; knotted attachment to metal rings on the frame; fixed length.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-stitched handle knots; meticulous pleating at the frame insertion; high-relief metal casting on the floral plaque.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetrical gathering at the frame; weight of the brass frame; tight weave of the crepe; lack of modern plastic components in the closure.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or Europe (Italy/France); standard atelier production for mid-size department stores of the era.
Era & Period
Late 1940s to early 1950s (Post-WWII); indicators include the ruched 'New Look' aesthetic and the use of brass filigree popular in evening accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1948-1955 based on the style of the floral filigree and fabric type.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from utilitarian wartime bags to more decorative, feminine 'Lady' styles popularized by Dior's New Look movement.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; fabric shows minor surface dust/lint; hardware exhibits slight natural patination/oxidation consistent with age; structure remains intact without significant sagging.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD; value is decorative/vintage rather than brand-driven; condition of the delicate frame is the primary price driver.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle lint rolling for the fabric; keep away from moisture to prevent brass tarnish; store stuffed in a dust bag to maintain the ruched shape.
Similar Handbags
Vintage Whiting & Davis mesh bags (different material but similar frames); Magid beaded bags; early Corde handbags.
Interesting Facts
The rose was a highly popular motif in the 1940s, symbolizing beauty and hope following the austerity of the war years.
Notes
Charley