The History, Style, and Functionality of Canteen Purses

The History and Evolution of Canteen Purses

Canteen purses, also known as canteen bags, have a long and storied history. These small, compact purses are designed to look like military canteens, complete with a narrow neck and rounded body. Their unique shape makes them a fashionable and functional accessory.

World War II Origins

Canteen purses first emerged during World War II as a practical accessory for nurses and military personnel. Soldiers often carried small canteens of water with them, typically hung by a strap and nestled close to their sides. Nurses and medical staff adopted a similar style, finding it useful to keep small medical supplies and personal items in a bag with a narrow opening that could be securely closed.

These original military canteen purses were quite plain, made from simple canvas or leather materials. But they were beloved for their compact shape and usefulness in organization and portability. The name “canteen bag” stuck even when used by non-military personnel.

Post-War Popularity

After World War II ended, canteen purses saw a surge in mainstream popularity. The 1950s saw canteen silhouettes translated into all kinds of fabrics like silk, sequins, velvet, and more. High fashion brands like Chanel, Coach, and Hermès included canteen bags in their collections.

By the 1960s and 70s, younger generations embraced canteen purses as an element of counterculture fashion. More artisanal and indie brands put out hippie-inflected embroidered, patched, or brightly colored canteen bags. They remain popular as an emblem of vintage style.

Modern Takes on a Classic

Today, canteen purses are reinterpreted in many forms while holding onto the characteristic slim, curved shape. Modern versions may have more structure and include inner compartments, pockets, closures, and stabilizing bases. The straps have also been updated – many now have shorter handles or chain-link straps rather than the long shoulder straps used for utility.

Canteen purses now serve mainly as fashion accessories rather than practical bags. But their interior space still makes them usable for carrying daily essentials. Contemporary canteen bags may be made from leather, suede, canvas, vegan materials, clear PVC, sequined fabric, or any number of trendy textiles.

The Anatomy of a Canteen Purse

While silhouettes and details vary widely, most canteen purses share a few common structural elements:

The Strap

Historically, canteen purses had a long, slender strap worn over the shoulder to keep the bag securely at one’s side. The strap allows the wearer to have both hands free while keeping necessities close. Today, straps vary widely and may be short handles, longer straps, or even chain-link straps.

Capped Lid

A defining feature of a canteen purse is its capped lid. Like the lid of a canteen, the opening has a narrow neck and cap to seal its contents inside. This helps keep items secure and differentiates the canteen bag shape from a standard handbag.

Rounded Body

Of course, the most recognizable component of a canteen purse is its characteristic body. Mimicking the rounded shape of a military canteen, the bottom is wide and circular. This allows ample, organized interior room despite the narrow top opening.

Some modern canteen bags have more structured, rectangular bases rather than rounded. But most retain a bit of curve at the bottom for that classic canteen silhouette.

Compartments and Pockets

While vintage canteen purses were essentially a simple sack, contemporary versions often include inner compartments, pockets, and organizers. This updates the canteen design for modern lifestyles.

Inner sections allow wearers to neatly separate items like makeup, electronics, keys, baby supplies, and more. Zipped pockets keep essentials secure and easy to access in the unique canteen shape.

Popular Uses for Canteen Bags

Beyond style, canteen purses remain popular also thanks to their versatility and functionality. The compact shape lends well to all kinds of purposes:

Everyday Bag

The slim silhouette and ample roominess make canteen purses great lightweight daily bags. They can hold the essentials – phone, wallet, sunglasses, chargers, snacks – without bulk.

Diaper or Baby Bag

For parents, the hands-free strap and secure closure work nicely for carrying baby care items. The simple interior and wipeable fabrics also keep these ideal as a diaper bag alternative.

Toiletry or Travel Bag

The capped, leak-proof shape works nicely to organize toiletries and makeup. Canteen bags are also chic weekender or carry-on bags when traveling.

Festival Bag

Tickets, sunscreen, lip balm, phone... Canteen purses hold festival concert essentials all in onetransportable place.

Ultimately canteen bags are prized for their chic style and enduring usefulness. Their unique silhouette stands out while still remaining unfussy and practical.

Key Canteen Purse Brands

Some notable makers that have bought unique twists to the classic canteen bag include:

Portland Leather

This Pacific Northwest brand focuses on timeless leathergoods with simple utilitarian style. Their canteen purses feature gorgeous vegetable-tanned leather, wrapped handles, multiple interior pockets, and brass hardware.

Jack + Mulligan

With an emphasis on sustainability, Jack + Mulligan creates canteen bags from regenerated cellulose and plant-based leathers. Plus, 2% of each sale goes to eco causes!

Rough & Tumble

For a more artisanal, indie vibe, Rough & Tumble makes lovely patched canteen bags with floral motifs. Each piece features unique, upcycled fabrics sewn into the classic style.

Haniela

On the glitzy end of the spectrum, Haniela dazzles up vegan leather canteen bags with rhinestones and metallic studs. Their jewelry-infused bags shine bright for nights out.

Vintage canteen purses also abound at secondhand and resale shops for those looking for a truly one-of-a-kind bag.

However you wear it, the canteen bag endures as a fashion favorite that mixes style, history, and functionality all in one chic little package.

FAQs

What is the history of the canteen purse?

Canteen purses first emerged during World War II as practical accessories for nurses and soldiers to carry water and personal items. Their popularity expanded after the war into mainstream fashion, with high end designers creating luxury canteen bags. They remain popular today as vintage-inspired accessories.

What makes the canteen purse shape unique?

The signature canteen purse shape features a rounded bottom, narrow neck, and capped lid reminiscent of a military canteen for water. This shape allows security and ample room for contents while maintaining a slim, hands-free silhouette.

What do people use canteen purses for?

The versatility of canteen purses makes them useful as everyday carryalls, travel toiletry bags, festival bag, diaper bags, and more. Their compact size and comfortable strap make them functional for all kinds of activities.

What are some popular canteen purse brands?

Some top contemporary canteen purse brands include Portland Leather, Jack + Mulligan, Rough & Tumble, and Haniela. Each brand puts its own spin on the classic canteen design with unique materials and hardware.