Sequinned Bags and Purses. A sequin is a small, shiny, disc-shaped bead used for decorative purposes. In earlier centuries, they were made from shiny metals. Today, sequins are most often made from plastic. They are available in a wide variety of colors and geometrical shapes. Sequins are commonly used on clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry and other accessories. Reference: Wikipedia
Below are some examples and price guides of sequinned bags and purses including a silver sequin flap bag by Chanel and an 18th century Turkish purse.
SILVER SEQUIN EAST WEST FLAP BAG, Chanel, c. 2015, Silver tone hardware, Private Sales label
Sold for £ 1,912 inc. premium at Bonham’s in 2020
A NAVY ÉPI LEATHER & SEQUIN NIGHT BIRD TWIST MM WITH GOLD HARDWARE LOUIS VUITTON, 2016 GRADE: 2
Sold for GBP 1,875 at Christie’s in 2019
Fendi Black Sequin Baguette Bag Gilt-metal and red glitter enamel clasp, detachable black leather strap, royal blue silk lining, 10 1/2 x 6 x 2 inches, labeled: Fendi/Made in Italy.
Sold for $330 (includes buyer’s premium) at Doyle in 2005
SCHIAPARELLI SEQUINNED CANE PURSE, 1950’s. Red vinyl bubble covered in black knit with serpentine rows of black sequins having whimsical face consisting of black and white plastic eyes and a mouth made from a red zipper, serving as opening to bag, all mounted on a bamboo cane. Label “Schiaparelli”
Sold for $2,900 at Charles A. Whitaker Auction Co in 2012
A velvet money purse embroidered with silver thread, Turkey, 18th Century of flattened baluster form with an ovoid cover held in place by two embroidered strings fastened at top in a round knot, featuring floral designs embroidered with metal threads and sequinned loops against a dark purple velvet background
Sold for 12,500 GBP at Sotheby’s in 2012
Paper embroidered Purse
The technique of this purse is unusual. Normally linen was used as a ground for embroidery, but in this case it is heavy paper. The thick application of the metal thread and extensive use of metal purl gives the purse a very rich three-dimensional texture.
The pattern features two favourite Jacobean motifs, roses and pea pods. Most embroidery designs of this period are inspired by flowers and plants that grew in the garden.
Reference: © Victoria and Albert Museum
