Exquisite handbags will always be objects of fascination, here's why

The "it-bag" craze is said to have kicked off in the 1990s, with women, influenced by celebrity images, flocking to buy a certain designer style. Photo: V&A

Whether carried by UK's Margaret Thatcher or Sex And The City actress Sarah Jessica Parker, handbags pack a powerful punch.

Bags are a connecting link between the home and the outside world and allow people to carry money or important documents out of sight.