Designer Spotlight: Enid Collins

Enid Collins designed whimsical purses, from 1959 to 1970 (when the company Collins of Texas was sold to Tandy Leather Corporation).
This wooden box purse is called 'Night Owls'

'For the Birds'

'Cock O' the Walk'


I'm more drawn to the wooden purses, and considering I just chose all birds themed ones, I guess I'm drawn to those too.
But there are several popular themes, including love, money, and astrological signs.

She made several cute bucket designs too.
I'm not sure of the year on this one, but from what I can tell it's called 'Cable Car'


This is a later model, Collins of Texas bag called 'Aces High'.
I like the cylindrical shape


Collins' bags included sequins, painted designs, and novelty sayings.
The bags are often dated and signed, and usually include the design name also.
According to Cool Old Stuff, bags signed with a lowercase 'ec' or 'e' were made during Enid Collins tenure.
Bags with a capital 'C', or labeled 'Collins of Texas' (without Enid's name anywhere) are less valuable as they are Tandy bags.

In the late 1960's, do-it-yourself kits were sold, called Sophistikits.
These are also not as valuable.
More info, from Sweetheartville.

The theme for this month's challenge is to refashion a readymade bag.
I've mentioned ideas including mosaic, and painting.
What a perfect time, therefore, to be inspired by Enid Collins!

Angry Chicken is a fan--she bought an original.
Then she made her own version--maybe you might want to give it a try!



Sweetheartville did a Dia De Los Muertos version


Hints for identifying authentic bags.

Good info on eBay Guide to Enid Collins

Photos on Enid Collins Purse Collector's Page.

Amazing collection of bags on Flickr, from Glumpire.

Read the book, Popular Purses: it's in the bag.

Enid Collins bags were listed as a top ten collectible by Country Home Magazine, 2007.

Sunshine City Lassie is a fan.
So is Vanessa.
California Girl at Heart.
This is not your daughter's shopping blog.