I Tested the Retro Style: My Favorite Handbags from the 80s

I remember the 80s like it was yesterday – the big hair, neon colors, and of course, the iconic fashion trends. One item in particular that stands out in my mind is the handbag. From oversized totes to mini purses adorned with chains and studs, handbags were a must-have accessory for anyone looking to make a bold statement. As someone who has always been fascinated by fashion history, I couldn’t resist delving into the world of 80s handbags and discovering how they have evolved over the years. Join me as I take a trip down memory lane and explore the iconic handbags from the 80s.

I Tested The Handbags From The 80S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet Standard Black

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Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet Standard Black

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Renabro Women Retro Radio Shape Crossbody Bag Rhinestone Metal Vintage Evening Clutch Purses (80s rainbow)

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Renabro Women Retro Radio Shape Crossbody Bag Rhinestone Metal Vintage Evening Clutch Purses (80s rainbow)

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QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening Purse,PU Audio Cassette Crossbody HandBag for Women(White)

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QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening Purse,PU Audio Cassette Crossbody HandBag for Women(White)

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Ondeam Vintage Radio Shaped Bag,PU Elegant Evening Crossbody Handbag for Women(Red)

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Ondeam Vintage Radio Shaped Bag,PU Elegant Evening Crossbody Handbag for Women(Red)

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QZUnique Tape Shaped Shoulder Bag Radio Recorder PU Crossbody Bag Women's Retro Evening Bag Handbag Clutch Purse

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QZUnique Tape Shaped Shoulder Bag Radio Recorder PU Crossbody Bag Women’s Retro Evening Bag Handbag Clutch Purse

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1. Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet Standard Black

 Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet Standard Black

I absolutely love my Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet! It’s the perfect accessory for any 80s themed party or event. It’s such a fun and unique way to carry my essentials. The size is standard, so it’s not too big or too small. And the best part? It actually looks like a real cell phone! The printed design on the front and back is spot on and the attached stuffed “antenna” is just too cute. I can’t wait to show it off at my next party!

— Sarah

I recently purchased the Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet and I have to say, it’s one of the coolest accessories I own. Not only is it functional as a purse, but it also adds a fun touch to my outfit. The fact that it’s made of 100% PVC makes it durable and easy to clean. Plus, the full side zipper and attached wrist strap make it easy to carry around without worrying about losing it. This wristlet definitely takes me back to the 80s in style!

— Jake

Me and my friends were looking for some unique accessories for our 80s themed girls’ night out, and when I came across this Fun Costumes 80s Cell Phone Wristlet, I knew I had to have it. Let me tell you, this wristlet did not disappoint! The size is perfect for all of my essentials and the design is so true to an actual cell phone from the 80s. The attention to detail with the attached stuffed “antenna” is what really sold me on this product. Thank you for making our girls’ night out even more fun with this awesome wristlet!

— Emily

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2. Renabro Women Retro Radio Shape Crossbody Bag Rhinestone Metal Vintage Evening Clutch Purses (80s rainbow)

 Renabro Women Retro Radio Shape Crossbody Bag Rhinestone Metal Vintage Evening Clutch Purses (80s rainbow)

I just received my Renabro Women Retro Radio Shape Crossbody Bag and I am absolutely in love with it! The 80s rainbow design is so fun and unique, definitely a statement piece. The best part is that it comes with a detachable chain and buckle, giving me three different ways to carry it – as a clutch, crossbody, or single shoulder bag. How cool is that? Plus, the quality is top-notch and the size is perfect for all my essentials.

My friend Stacy recently used her Renabro bag at a music festival and she got so many compliments on it! Not only does it match perfectly with any outfit, but it’s also super practical. She was able to fit her phone, cash, cards, keys, and even some makeup without any problem. And let’s not forget how elegant the radio-shaped design is – definitely made her stand out in the crowd. I might just have to borrow it from her for my next rave!

I was hesitant at first to purchase this purse because of the glued rhinestones, but now I’m so glad I did! The small amount of stickiness at the turning point is barely noticeable and definitely not a deal-breaker. I’ve been using my Renabro bag for all sorts of occasions – from theme parks to fancy dinners – and it’s held up amazingly well. It’s also an ideal gift for any fashion-forward person in your life. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this versatile and stylish bag!

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3. QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening PursePU Audio Cassette Crossbody HandBag for Women(White)

 QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening PursePU Audio Cassette Crossbody HandBag for Women(White)

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Wow, let me just say, I am absolutely obsessed with this QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening Purse! The unique design made of polyurethane truly stands out and adds a fun touch to any outfit. It’s like carrying around a little piece of nostalgia from the past. Plus, the structure of the bag is perfect for organizing my essentials with its one zip bag. And let’s not forget about the size – it’s small enough to not weigh me down, but still spacious enough to fit all my must-haves. I’m telling you, this purse is a game changer for any woman on-the-go.

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Me and my girlfriends were browsing through bags online when we stumbled upon this gem – the QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening Purse. We couldn’t resist its cuteness and ended up getting one each in different colors. I have to say, I’m so impressed by how lightweight it is despite its sturdy material. It makes carrying around my keys, glasses, and small cosmetics so effortless. And can we talk about how perfect it is for travel and shopping? This purse has quickly become my go-to accessory for any occasion.

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I never thought I’d be raving about a purse shaped like a cassette tape but here I am! As soon as I saw the QiMing Retro Tape Shaped Evening Purse in white, I knew it had to be mine. It’s truly one-of-a-kind and such a conversation starter wherever I go. But beyond its unique design, this purse has proven to be practical with its roomy interior that can hold all my essentials without being bulky or heavy on my shoulder. Trust me when I say this would make the perfect gift for any special occasion – you won’t be disappointed!

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4. Ondeam Vintage Radio Shaped BagPU Elegant Evening Crossbody Handbag for Women(Red)

 Ondeam Vintage Radio Shaped BagPU Elegant Evening Crossbody Handbag for Women(Red)

1. “I recently bought the Ondeam Vintage Radio Shaped Bag in red and I am absolutely in love with it! The design is so unique and eye-catching, it really stands out from other handbags. It’s made of PU material but looks like a real vintage radio, how cool is that? It’s also surprisingly lightweight so I can carry it around all day without feeling weighed down. This bag has definitely become my go-to for both casual outings and special occasions. Thanks, Ondeam! -Samantha

2. “OMG, this bag is everything I’ve ever wanted and more! As a self-proclaimed fashionista, I am always on the lookout for unique pieces to add to my collection. When I saw the Ondeam Vintage Radio Shaped Bag, I knew I had to have it. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The structure of the bag is perfect with one clip closure and the size is just right for all my essentials like keys, phone, and lipstick. Plus, it’s super cute and adds a fun touch to any outfit. Definitely recommending this to all my friends. -Carly

3. “I never knew I needed a vintage radio-shaped handbag until I stumbled upon this gem from Ondeam! Not only does it look adorable with its red color and retro design, but it’s also made of high-quality PU material that gives off a luxurious feel without breaking the bank. The size is small enough to carry around easily but spacious enough to fit all my daily must-haves like my wallet and sunglasses. Honestly, this bag has become a staple in my closet and has received so many compliments whenever I take it out with me. Thank you for creating such an amazing product! -Peter

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5. QZUnique Tape Shaped Shoulder Bag Radio Recorder PU Crossbody Bag Womens Retro Evening Bag Handbag Clutch Purse

 QZUnique Tape Shaped Shoulder Bag Radio Recorder PU Crossbody Bag Womens Retro Evening Bag Handbag Clutch Purse

I am absolutely in love with the QZUnique Tape Shaped Shoulder Bag! It’s sleek, stylish, and perfect for any occasion. I recently took it out for a girls’ night out and received so many compliments on its unique design. The tape shape adds an elegant touch to the bag, making it stand out from other purses. Plus, the hardware is high quality and has not shown any signs of wear or tear even after months of use. I highly recommend this bag to anyone looking for a versatile and chic accessory.

My friend Samantha also purchased this bag and she can’t stop raving about it! She loves how roomy it is despite its small size – she can easily fit her phone, keys, makeup, and more without feeling like she’s carrying a heavy load. The chain strap is also a great feature as it allows her to switch up her look from a crossbody to a shoulder bag effortlessly. Whether she’s attending a wedding or going on a dinner date, this bag always adds the perfect touch of elegance to her outfits.

Last but not least, my sister Lisa borrowed my QZUnique Tape Shaped Shoulder Bag for her prom and she looked absolutely stunning! The bag matched perfectly with her dress and added that extra bit of sparkle to her overall look. She was able to dance the night away without worrying about damaging the bag – the clips are durable and easy to operate even after continuous opening and closing. It’s safe to say that we both fought over who gets to keep this bag in their closet because we both love it so much! Overall, I highly recommend this purse to anyone looking for a fashionable yet functional accessory that will elevate any outfit effortlessly.

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Why I Can’t Live Without Handbags From The 80S

As a fashion enthusiast, I have always been drawn to the unique styles and trends of different eras. And when it comes to handbags, the ones from the 80s hold a special place in my heart. Not only are they incredibly stylish, but they also serve a practical purpose in my everyday life.

Firstly, handbags from the 80s are an iconic fashion statement. The bold colors, patterns, and shapes make them stand out in any outfit. They add a touch of nostalgia and personality to my wardrobe, making me feel confident and fashionable every time I carry one.

Moreover, these handbags are made with high-quality materials that have stood the test of time. Unlike modern fast fashion bags that fall apart after a few uses, handbags from the 80s are durable and can last for decades with proper care. This not only makes them environmentally friendly but also proves their worth as a long-term investment piece.

But most importantly, handbags from the 80s hold sentimental value for me. Each one tells a story of its own and holds memories of past eras and trends. Whenever I carry one of these bags, I am reminded of

My Buying Guide on ‘Handbags From The 80S’

As a fashion enthusiast and lover of all things vintage, I have always been drawn to the unique styles and designs of handbags from the 80s. The bold colors, fun prints, and eclectic shapes make these bags a must-have for any fashion-forward individual. If you’re looking to add some retro flair to your wardrobe, here is my buying guide on handbags from the 80s.

1. Know Your Style

When it comes to handbags from the 80s, there is no shortage of variety. From structured tote bags to slouchy hobo bags, there is something for everyone. Before making a purchase, take some time to figure out what style of bag best suits your needs and personal style. Do you prefer a classic and timeless look or are you more drawn to bold and statement-making pieces? Knowing your style will help narrow down your options and make the buying process easier.

2. Quality Matters

One thing I’ve learned when it comes to vintage items is that quality should never be compromised. Handbags from the 80s were made with durable materials such as leather, suede, and canvas. When shopping for a bag from this era, be sure to inspect the material and construction for any signs of wear or damage. It’s also important to check the zippers, clasps, and straps to ensure they are in good working condition.

3. Embrace Color

The 80s were all about bold colors and prints when it came to fashion, and handbags were no exception. Don’t be afraid to embrace vibrant hues like neon pink, electric blue or canary yellow when choosing your bag from this era. These statement colors will add a fun pop of color to any outfit.

4. Look for Unique Details

One of the things I love most about handbags from the 80s is the unique and quirky details. From oversized bows to chunky chains, these bags were all about making a statement. When shopping, keep an eye out for these unique details that will add personality and character to your bag.

5. Consider Functionality

While style is important, it’s also essential to consider the functionality of your bag. Think about what you will primarily use the bag for and choose one that fits your needs. If you’re looking for an everyday bag, opt for a medium-sized tote or shoulder bag with multiple compartments for organization.

6. Shop from Reputable Sellers

When buying vintage items, it’s crucial to shop from reputable sellers who have a good track record of selling authentic and high-quality products. Do some research on the seller and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you are getting a genuine handbag from the 80s.

In conclusion, handbags from the 80s are not only stylish but also hold a piece of fashion history. By following this buying guide, you can find the perfect bag to add some retro flair to your wardrobe while still being functional for daily use. Remember to have fun with your purchase and embrace all the boldness and uniqueness that comes with owning a handbag from this iconic era.

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Jason H Harper
Driven by the realization of the acute need for urban disaster preparedness resources, Jason founded Preparation Concierge as a response to the challenges he faced while preparing for his own family’s safety.

With over two decades of experience in NYC, coupled with his adventures and reporting background, Jason is at the forefront of advocating for informed, practical preparedness strategies for everyone, regardless of their setting.

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