On the origin of the handbag

In 1859, Charles Darwin wrote a book, called "The Origin Of Species". In it, he describes the process of evolution- the gradual change over years that brought about the various creatures we see today. In effect, what he had written was the general life story of every species, spelt out in such a way that the similarities are clear.

What you may not have considered, however, is that this system of spelling out also applies to other areas. For example, handbags. If you consider the history of each of the major fashion designers, it can be difficult to see any common ground. However, it is not that hard to find a sequence common to all of them. And so, without further ado, I present The Origin Of Handbags!

Begin with a dream. Most of the major labels, such as Chloe, Fendi, or Krizia began with a single woman opening a shop. Of course, not every major label begins this way. Gucci, for example, began with a man opening a shop. Sometimes they sell clothing, sometimes not, but inevitably the founder discovers a sense of fashion.

Shortly after their shop begins to succeed, the founder begins creating new and original fashions. At this point, they have a small shop in a big city, and begin to display their wares. Many people crash and burn here, or simply fail to attract the right attention, but for the soon-to-be major label designer, they quickly draw the attention of the cities fashion-conscious. Here, excellent business sense, and a significant amount of persistence, are needed to lift them to the top.

while some may struggle initially, such as Guess did, when trying to get their jeans into shops, others are immediately successful- such as Ralph Lauren's ties. In any case, as soon as the public gets hold of their work, they very swiftly rise in fame. Within the founders lifetime, they see international recognition, and decide to expand their company.

With this expansion, comes the handbag. Being now fairly well known, other areas of fashion are broached, including fashion accessories... such as the handbag. A blank slate for them to work on, a handbag is not a necessary item such as a shirt or shoes are, and so the designers can freely express themselves without worrying about practicality. Thus each label produces their own unique design, and sales skyrocket.

Whatever style you particularly favour, be it the elegance of Prada or the class of Diego Rocha, you can hardly argue that they are very different, and convey a unique impression. Everyone needs to wear clothes, but handbags are optional, and so are open for whatever incredible inventiveness the artist can devise.

In time, the original creator of the company passes away, and control of the brand is passed to his or her children. Sometimes they fight amongst themselves, as Aldo and Rodolfo Gucci did, or work peacefully together, as did the daughters of Adele Fendi. In any case, the label remains within the family. They continue to design ever more works of fashion, and the sales -- and prices -- of their handbags rise.

Once they have achieved international renown, not to mention uncountable awards, there is no where left to rise to- they are already at the top. By now, of course, the brand is a commonly spoken name, and everyone knows them. Usually the founder as, well, although not always. Could anyone, ever, hope to rival the fantastic designs and glamorous life of Roberto Cavalli? I hardly think so, save perhaps, by another designer...

This concludes our review of the Origin of Handbags. As you can see, there really is a simple blueprint, that every great fashion brand follows. Makes you wonder what else might have similar patterns, doesn't it?

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