Have you ever seen a bag that you really love but you know deep down that it will never fit your lifestyle and that you will probably never own one, no matter how much you admire it? I have, and despite being downright impractical, I covet Judith Leiber’s crystal minaudières. While I fully acknowledge that these novelty bags aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, I choose to see them as mini pieces of art. I naturally gravitate towards intricate details, and the Leiber aesthetic definitely falls in line with my love of all things ornate. Each piece is a handcrafted labor of love, and every single bag is meticulously created. The playful, kitschy designs combined with endless sparkles draw me in, and they manage to capture the best of my inner child. Playful, yet oddly sophisticated, there is no denying that the iconic designs are some of the most eccentric on the market. No other brand can do quirky quite like Judith Leiber, and they’re pretty much a niche of their own as far as I’m concerned.
I think what I love most about these bags is that after learning more about Judith Leiber and the origins of these little beauties, I discovered that the crystal bags were created from a bad batch of metal. Leiber was creating a bag made of metal, and the color of the metal she ordered didn’t align with her vision for the design, so quick thinking Leiber covered the undesirable material entirely with crystals. There lies the inception of the wildly successful crystal minaudière. Anyone who can create an empire from a bag design gone wrong is a true legend and I am in awe of the tenacity that Judith Leiber possessed, along with her impeccable eye for design. While many people would have thrown away the discolored metal, she was able to use her resources, design something fresh, and launch her career as a fashion icon—what an inspiration!
[sc_ic_ad1]I consider Judith Leiber’s designs to co-exist in the worlds of art and fashion, and her bags are displayed in many of the world’s most prestigious art museums. In fact, Leiber’s designs first caught my eye on a visit to my favorite museum, the Museum of Handbags and Purses. The museum in Amsterdam houses some of Leiber’s most stunning designs and I have held a special place in my heart for the crystal minaudières ever since my visit to the museum. If you ever find yourself in Amsterdam, make sure to check out the museum—it truly is a treasure trove of beautiful handbags and also packs a history lesson in, housing many historical handbags in its collection.
If I ever win the lottery, a bag from Judith Leiber would sit at the top of my list as the first fun purchase I would make! Here are my favorites:
Judith Leiber Swirl Candy Clutch ($4,495
Judith Leiber Popsicle Box Clutch ($4,195)
Judith Leiber Hot Air Balloon Rainbow ($4,695)
Judith Leiber Schloss Castle Clutch Bag ($5,695)
Judith Leiber Gumball Machine Clutch ($4,995)
Judith Leiber Popcorn Matinee ($5,695)
Judith Leiber Call Me Brick Phone ($5,695)
Judith Leiber Peony Crystal Clutch ($4,495)
These are not functional at all, but that’s really not the point of them. They are beautiful, fun little works of art that add interest and whimsy to an outfit. If money wore no object, I’d collect them to display as such. If you ever get a chance to see them in person, do it.
My favorites of the design house has always been the skulls.
Did you know that they sell these teeny tiny powder compacts with mirror & real powder (you choose your shade, as they are refilliable) – to fit in your tiny bejeweled bag? Ha! It’s quite adorable. ? Yes, these are a must see in person!
There used to be a store close by (Marshall Fields) that would have a couple of JLs for sale, I always walked over to check them out.
If I ever have too much money and I can’t figure out what to do with all of it, I’m getting myself some of these! Amazing.
Me too. I’ve always admired these from afar.
I love them too. I have a vintage Leiber bag that looks like a stack of 3 books, but I would love one of the more whimsical designs, like the gumball machine or the popcorn!
Her bags always make me look, they are incredible.
So beautiful, what collector’s items! If I were a celebrity always on a red carpet, I’d collect a different one for each event 😉
dee has brought her fun energy to JL <3
Finally! A wonderful post on something other than the usual suspects (or sidetrack blah brands). JL is beautiful and timeless art. These are stunning!
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LOVE the Peony & Swirled candy! Exquisite!
Dreaming of a Judith Leiber minaudière too! My favorites are the animal-shaped ones 🙂
I love them all!!! very fun.
Weighs a ton and can’t fit my phone? Ok hook me up 🙂
They are cute, impractical and expensive, but I love all of them!
They are impractical but I’m obsessed with spotting celebrities wearing them! They are pieces of art.
Hi Lucy. That’s funny. I’ve never been a JL fan for exactly the reasons you list, but this article has caused me to open up more and admire her work. Now that’s a good article! Thanks for spreading a little joy and sunshine! And for making me want to buy a sparkly bag, too!
Thank you so much for your kind comment, Laura!!! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
I loved the Judith Leiber’s Cupcake fine-crystal clutch in pink that was shown in Sex in the City, I. Such a cute and impractical treasure!.