What is a Reticule? ~ D. K. Deters

In my new work in process (WIP), the main character carries a reticule when she goes to town. While I’m aware what a reticule is, I wanted to understand its origin because, as we all know, a handbag can tell you a lot about the lady who carries it. I conducted a little research and found several interesting articles.       

First, a reticule is an 18th or 19th century handbag used by women. According to the Online Etymology Dictionary: Reticule "a lady's small handbag," originally of network, later usually of any woven material, from French réticule (18c.) "a net for the hair, a reticule," from Latin reticulum "a little net, network bag.”

As women’s fashion evolved in the late 18th century, the shift from large, layered skirts gave way to a form-fitting silhouette. Women needed a place to store their possessions that wouldn’t cause their clothes to bulge. The reticule emerged as a practical solution and functioned perfectly as an exterior pocket.

              

According to the 1831 American Girl’s Book: or Occupation for Play Hours, the bag has many styles: circular, basket, three-sided, pocket book, plaited, pointed, halbert-shaped, dimity, and braided.

The sizes vary, but they are typically small, measuring between four and eight inches in width and height. You’ll find reticules made from a variety of materials, such as satin, silk, cotton, linen, velvet, leather, and tapestry. Many embellishments feature embroidery, beading, tassels, and even tortoise shells.

             

These 19^th century design examples show the classic drawstring closure.  The bags, though small and dainty, held an assortment of items a woman might need. Those items included: coins, hairpins, jewelry, a pocket watch, and even smelling salts. If you’re wondering where ladies kept their belongings before bags became popular, they tied pockets around their waists under their dresses. But I digress.

                   

According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s (The Met), “men critics ridiculed the reticule, claiming that women would overstuff the bags…” Of course, the reticules of yesteryear are nothing compared to the options available now. I think the men back then would have to see the bags today to understand the concept of overstuff. Don’t you?