1980s Maud Frizon Sculptural Black Suede Jeweled Evening Shoulder Bag

Maud Frizon built one of the most exclusive and coveted shoe brands long before Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin were household names. Avant-garde designers such as Claude Montana, Sonia Rykiel and Thierry Mugler all paired their runway clothes with her boldly colored creations and innovative silhouettes, including the cone-shaped heel that was ubiquitous in the Eighties.

“She’s the only one,” Mugler told People magazine during that time, “who is open to new ideas and knows how to see them through.”

During its heyday, the Maud Frizon boutique in Paris would be so packed that customers would try on her wares on the sidewalk. While the label wasn’t as celebrated for its handbags, this amazing minaudière makes a case that it should be. The small tote features a cylindrical bucket bottom and a pointed top, both crafted from soft and supple black suede. Embellishing the exterior are three rows of prong-set rhinestones in red, clear and sapphire. Similar rhinestones detail the pulls for the zipper closure. To hold the playful item is a tubular black suede strap that loops through its top tactically to maintain its shape. It’s an entirely unique accessory for a collector or someone seeking a standout piece that can go from day to evening effortlessly.

Measurements:

Height: 8 inches

Depth: 5 inches

Strap drop: 24 inches

This Maud Frizon sculptural minaudière is in excellent condition. The cylindrical bottom, pointed top and tubular strap are made from luxe black suede. Three rows of prong-set rhinestones in red, clear and sapphire decorate the exterior. Similar embellishments appear on the suede pulls for the zipper closure. The unlined interior includes a Maud Frizon label.

The strap is long enough to wear as a cross-body or as a shoulder bag. The item comes with a green Maud Frizon dust bag for storage. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.