Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Whiting & Davis Gold Mesh Purse and Duramesh Gold Mesh Purse Accessories


BONUS! DOUBLE POST! Whiting & Davis Wristlet and Duramesh Purse Accessories. 1940s-1950s. Maker: Whiting & Davis and Duramesh. Gold mesh Whiting & Davis tiny purse with wristlet-style, tightly woven goldtone metal mesh handle. Goldtone purse frame is stamped Whiting & Davis Co. – Made in USA.


Duramesh gold mesh purse accessories set including change purse, billfold, comb and file holder (comb and file still inside!), pillbox, and glasses or cigarette case. Most of the items have the cloth Duramesh - Made in USA label on the inside.


While some people use the manufacturers’ names interchangeably, my understanding is that Whiting & Davis and Duramesh were competitors. I bought this set together, but I don’t think the seller knew they were made by separate companies. I am not certain of the era, as experts seem to disagree, but I am guessing ‘40s or ‘50s. If you have any info on these, please email me at info(at)vintagepursegallery(dot)com and I will post it here.



Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Tooled Leather Little Girl's Shoulder Bag


Small Tooled Leather Shoulder Bag. 1970s. Maker: Unknown. Sweet little tooled brown leather handbag, probably a child’s purse. Intricate floral pattern on both sides. Leather lacing trim. Kisslock with brass-tone window, which has red plastic on the underside. Three inner pockets; one zips. Removable strap.

This purse is adorable! If I had a granddaughter, it would be SO hers. Check out the bonus pics below. I recently acquired a 1970s swirl skirt with matching halter. It looks better on Graciela the Mannequin than on me, but I’m going to wear it anyway. (Don’t worry—the halter will have a blouse over it!)




Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Hot Pink Midas of Miami Purse with Springtime Scene


Basket Purse with Springtime Scene. 1960s. Maker: Midas of Miami. White-painted wicker picnic-style bag with hot pink velvet inset on the front and at the top. Design features a painted tree, applique pink and blue flowers, and faux mother-of-pearl birds. Gold trim. White and gold handles. Three gold feet. Inside lined in pink satin-like fabric.


I know I say certain designers are “my favorite,” but, truly, the Midas of Miami brand is one of the best, with handmade designs that are like no other. In fact, I have duplicates of some Midas bags and even those have slight variations. Check out this bonus pic!