1950s Apricot and Clear Carved Lucite Barrel Florida Bag
1950s clear and pearlescent apricot carved lucite drum or barrel-shaped bag. One of the most desirable shapes of lucite bag, the handle is also crafted from lucite and detailed with carved florals. Each flat end of the barrel is intricately carved in a crystal-like formation. The hardware is built from gold-toned brass and the piece balances on four brass feet. The hinged lid closes with an elaborate 3-ball clasp to secure it. The inside is unlined.
Some of the most spectacular and expensive rhinestone examples were made in Miami, the home of the "Florida style" lucite bag, as the resort was frequented by the rich and famous during the 1950s. Unsigned but it may have been made by one of the greats - Charles S Khan, Florida Handbags or Patricia of Miami. Good condition for its age and rarity; slight rubbing and surface scratches to the gold-toned hardware and lucite in very good order without the 'crazing' that effects these bags as they age. There appears to be a recessed strip either side of the lid which may have had a strip row of crystals inserted but these have been removed. Circa has sold a clear lucite bag with crystal insertions previously. We deliberated on adding new strips, which are easy to source and apply yourself but the team preferred the bag 'sans' bling and so we leave this up to the new owner. It’s not at all noticeable when the bag is in use.
MEASUREMENTS:
Width 5 in. (13 cm)
Height 5 in. (13 cm)
Length 6.5 in. (17 cm)
Depth 4.5 in. (11 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal