Featured Galleries: Pockets and Purses

In the 17th and 18th century, women often used pockets to carry necessities. Unlike the pockets we think of today, these were a separate garment, worn tied around the waist under one's skirts. This trend shifted at the end of the 18th century as the style of dress shifted towards a slimmer skirt silhouette that be not hid the pockets. As styles moved away from pockets, women began to use early handbags, essentially a pocket with handles attached.