Did You Know? The first handheld purses were called "ridiculous”

Language has a funny way of evolving, and the history of the purse contains one of the best linguistic burns of all time.

In the late 18th century, women’s fashion shed the heavy, poofy gowns of the past in favour of sheer, high waisted, column like silhouettes (think Bridgerton or Jane Austen style). Because these dresses were practically painted on, women could no longer hide bulky pockets underneath them.

The solution? The reticule a tiny, dainty drawstring pouch held by a delicate cord.

Society at the time found this new invention absolutely hilarious. Critics and columnists mocked women for carrying their belongings out in the open in such tiny, impractical bags. In fact, people started satirically calling them "ridicules"instead of reticules.

The Takeaway: The handheld purse was born out of a fashion emergency, survived a wave of public mockery, and got the ultimate revenge by becoming a multi billion dollar global obsession. Not so ridiculous after all, right?

The Studio Files
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