Baguette Bags
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The baguette is the small, short-strapped handbag carried tucked under the arm like its namesake loaf. This page covers the Fendi design that made it famous and its place among handbag styles.
Baquette
No, we are not talking about a long, narrow loaf of French bread. We are also not referring to a gem, cut in a long rectangular shape.
A baguette is a small handbag with a short strap. It is NOT the type of strap that would go over the shoulder like many other types of handbag.
As far as we know the first baguette purse was originally designed by Fendi in 1997 (Fendi Baguette bag). This style of purse became popular large in part due to its exposure on the hit TV series Sex and the City. This small, compact designer handbag was very popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, often cited as the first "It" bag.
The Baguette concept was for a small, streamlined bag, carried on a short strap, that could be adapted for different looks, colors and textures while still having a consistent aesthetic. It marked a contrast from many popular women's purses at the time, which were often large totes.
The Fendi Italian fashion brand agreed to lend the Baguette to HBO's Sex and the City, which was still a relatively new show that was fast growing in popularity. Sarah Jessica Parker has credited Fendi's loan of the bag with being central in establishing the show and her character Carrie Bradshaw, saying "Having Carrie wear the Baguette was a defining moment for us, and marked the beginning of everything. The timing was perfect for the story we were telling and the character I was playing; the Baguette was the perfect embellishment. Once Fendi loaned us items, everyone was more willing to do so, which helped us dramatically in conveying Carrie’s decadence."
The baguette can be made with various materials such as sheepskin, leather, etc., and can be embellished with embroidery, appliques, crystals, rhinestones, studs, etc.
Yes, your baguette handbag can hold several baguette cut diamonds. If you can afford it, you are welcome to fill your bag with them.
You may want to learn about other handbags such as the clutch, satchel or hobo bag.
Learn about different types of handbags.
As a fashion accessory, handbags can be categorized according to the silhouette of the bag, as well as the type of handle. It is a good idea to pick a handbag for your body type.
Fashion Products Fashion Products A-F Fashion Products B
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Common Questions
What is a baguette bag?
A small handbag with a short strap, designed to be carried close under the arm. It is not a long shoulder strap style — the short drop is the defining feature, along with a compact, elongated body.
Which brand made the baguette famous?
Fendi. The house's Baguette bag became one of the defining accessories of its era and is still sold in new versions, which is why the style and the brand remain closely linked.
How does a baguette differ from a clutch or a satchel?
A clutch is carried in the hand or under the arm with no strap at all, while a satchel is a larger, structured bag with top handles and often a longer strap. The baguette sits between them: small like a clutch, but with its short strap always attached.