1960s Rayne Black Patent Leather Top Handle Bag
This elegant late 1960s Rayne trapeze-shape bag is crafted from patent black leather but such is the timeless design it could conceivably be a little later. It has an unusual structure where the two sides are curved at the top and cross each other. They are detailed with a beige and black striped braid along the top edge. In the middle sits a polished gold-tone clasp. The bag has a patent leather top handle and inside, is lined with matte black leather and detailed with a zip and a slip pocket. The brand name is stamped in gold inside. The bag is in very good vintage condition overall and presents well. Clean inside with light wear noted, there are some very small scratches to the outside that you'd never spot while carrying.
Rayne was established in 1885 in London as a Theatrical Costumier, Stage Shoe Shop and Factory. In 1900 they became known for luxurious women's footwear and handbags, attracting famous actresses such as Lili Langtree and Evie Greene to their doors. The brand received Royal Warrants from Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and Queen Elizabeth II, marking its significance to the British royal family. Celebrities like Marlene Dietrich, Brigitte Bardot, Vivien Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor also favored Rayne's designs which closed its doors over 100 years later in 1993.
MEASUREMENTS
LENGTH - 9 in. (22 cm)
WIDTH - 8.5 in. (21.6 cm)
DEPTH - 8.5 in. (21.6 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Where can I find more information about this item?
We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about any item on our site. Please get in touch at shop@circavintage.com or on +44 (0)20 7365053.
Will you set anything aside for me for my appointment?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website. We have an extensive offline collection. It is helpful if you can let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear. You may also wish to bring favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying-on, or gold and silver. We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look. Many of which are also for sale.
Do you have a price range at the showroom?
Many of our lower priced pieces, under £250, are not available to buy online. Dresses usually start at £150 and go up to £30,000 for the very best archival couture. Our bridalwear price points range from £1,000 to £20,000.
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Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I have my circa garment altered?
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.
Does Circa have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage purchases and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
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You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible.
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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.
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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.
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Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
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What is archival fashion?
Archival fashion refers to historically significant designer garments preserved for their cultural, aesthetic, or technical importance. At Circa, archival fashion includes couture archive pieces, runway garments, early designer work, and museum-quality vintage that document the evolution of fashion history.
How is archival fashion different from vintage?
While vintage typically describes clothing over 20 years old, archival vintage is selected for its rarity, provenance, and relevance to a designer’s archive or fashion history. Circa specialises in archival pieces rather than general vintage.