After months of hemming and hawing, I’ve decided to start selling some of the items from my mother’s vintage collection. This off-white bag is going directly to Etsy. I love its simple structure and zippered pocket. I think I might actually be able to find my keys in this little handbag. Ah, but unfortunately, it’s not one of the famous Hermes Kelly Bags which might fetch up to $10,000 on eBay.

(photo from BagBliss)

Gill Hart has an informative article on the Kelly Bag, how it was made and how it got its name.

When faced with a pack of nosy photographers, Stephanie Pendersen, in her book, Handbags: What Every Woman Should Know says that the shy, newly married Princess, not yet wishing to announce her pregnancy to the world, did what any woman would do and hid her secret in her handbag! Such was Kelly’s influence at the time that from henceforth, her essential accessory became known as the “Kelly” bag. (read more)

You can have your own Hermes Kelly Bag directly from your printer. Go to the Hermes website and click on Travel the World. Next choose the Kelly bag in the bottom row. Pick your favorite design and download the PDF. Print on cardstock, cut, fold and paste! Voila!

Edith Head’s favorite director was Alfred Hitchcock and “To Catch A Thief” is said to be Edith Head’s all-time favorite film. She designed this casual coral blouse and skirt when Grace Kelly requested that she wear a dress rather than pants for the picnic scene with Cary Grant. Note Grace Kelly’s signature matching silk scarf.

Somehow this just makes me want to clean out my closet and start fresh.