In the Belle Époque, handbags took on an exquisite role in fashion as small, decorative pouches known as "reticules." Crafted from luxurious materials and meticulously designed, they harmonized with a woman's attire, adding a touch of opulence. Alongside gloves, hats, and parasols, these accessories were carefully chosen to create a symphony of coordination, reflecting a woman's meticulous attention to detail. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, reticules were functional, carrying essential items. This blend of function and style from the Belle Époque era continues to influence contemporary handbag design, serving as one of the first examples in the 'modern' era of pairing handbags with attire.