Judith Leiber occupies an incredibly unique spot in American fashion. For decades, the brand has created meticulously jeweled evening bags in both traditional and whimsical forms, and they’ve been carried to some of the most important formal events in American culture, from the Academy Awards to presidential inaugurations. At The Art of Judith Leiber Luxury Auction, a Heritage Auctions special presentation, you have the chance to add exactly those bags to your personal wardrobe.
The scope of the event covers 500 pieces, some of which are museum-quality and available to the public for the first time. Most notably, the auction includes two bags that were designed specifically for American first ladies: a white satin and crystal clutch presented to Nancy Reagan for her husband’s inauguration, as well as a black-and-white crystal cat minaudiere designed to resemble Hillary and Bill Clinton’s cat, Socks. The Socks minaudiere was also presented to Clinton for her husband’s inauguration.
The collection premiers October 9 at Heritage’s headquarters in Dallas, Texas, but all of the lots are available to bid on now at the Heritage website, in addition to those for the Autumn Luxury Accessories Signature Auction, which will take place on September 29. Check out several of our favorite Leiber pieces from the selection below.