History and Style Tips for Canteen Purses | Western Fashion Accessory

The History and Style of Canteen Purses

Canteen purses, also known as saddle bags, have been a popular Western accessory for generations. These small bag-style purses typically feature decorative conchos, leather tassels, and intricate tooling or embroidery. Their unique shape is reminiscent of the canteens cowboys would carry on their travels in the Old West.

Origins as Functional Saddle Bags

Cowboys originally used canteen purses as practical saddle bags to carry provisions and belongings while out on the range. The pouches would hang off their saddles within easy reach. While their functionality has evolved over time, the iconic canteen silhouette remains a staple piece of Western style.

Fashionable and Feminine Accents

Today, canteen purses have become a feminine fashion accessory that nods to cowboy and cowgirl style. They lend a dash of Wild West charm to any outfit. The small, compact shape makes them a cute addition to dresses, jeans, and other looks.

Modern canteen purses may feature colorful fabrics like quilted patterns, glittering rhinestones, or Native American-inspired beading and feathers. Yet even with eye-catching embellishments, they retain the classic canteen silhouette with side-by-side pouches and sturdy shoulder straps.

Choosing the Perfect Canteen Purse

From embellished to embroidered, beaded to tooled leather, it’s easy to find a canteen purse to match your personal style. Here are some tips for selecting your ideal saddle bag.

Silhouette and Size

Canteen purses typically have compact dual pouches connected with leather lacing or fabric. The small bags will bump up against each other when worn over the shoulder. Consider if you prefer squared canteen ends or a more rounded silhouette.

Standard sizes range from compactpurses less than 5 inches wide to larger 8-10 inch saddle bags. The interior capacity often reflects the exterior size. Identify what you need to carry daily to choose your ideal proportions.

Stylish Straps

Adjustable leather or woven straps allow you to customize the wear. Canteen purse straps typically have a long drop length so they can be slung casually across the body. Some feature swivel clasps or hooks to connect the dual pouches.

Eye-catching details like conchos, studs, embroidery or fringe along the straps can make your saddle bags stand out. Make sure to try the strap on in store to test the style and comfort.

Materials and Embellishments

From vegan leather to suede and canvas, canteen purses now come in a wide array of fabrics. Distressed leather with a weathered patina channels that well-worn cowboy look.

Conchos, decorative metal pieces often used on saddles, make a frequent appearance as closures and straps accents. Intricately tooled patterns or floral cutouts bring artisan style to leather purses.

For a touch of sparkle, many brands offer rhinestone studded saddle bags or feature a glittery background. Themed canteen purses may highlight Native American art, cowhide prints, or Southwest motifs.

Wearing Canteen Purses in Modern Outfits

These stylish saddle bag purses bring personality and a bit of Western spirit to any outfit. As a versatile accessory, they can blend right in for a cute casual look or make a bolder style statement.

Casual Everyday Style

For relaxed ensembles, a classic brown leather canteen purse with minimal embellishments perfectly accents jeans and tee shirts combinations. The tan saddle bags feel right at home with boots for country concerts or a day at the farmer’s market.

A small canteen purse crossbody can accompany your athleisure wear for everything from yoga class to brunch dates. Consider floral patterns or a standout color like red or turquoise leather to upgrade basic workout looks.

Glamour and Sparkle

Rhinestones, metallic fabrics, and eye-catching conchos transform saddle bags from plain to glam. Make that glittering canteen purse the focal point by pairing it with solid color sheath dresses or jumpsuits.

For nights out, use an embellished canteen as a prop in photos and then stash it underneath your chair. The compact size ensures you won’t have to worry about holding a bag while dancing.

Boho and Bridesmaids

The free-spirited look of suede fringe and woven leather straps brings relaxed bohemian style to canteen purses. Layer the saddle bag over floral maxi dresses or caftans for an earthy vibe.

Brides also love customizable canteen purses as gifts for their bridesmaids. Opt for matching colors like blush pink or navy blue saddle bags featuring each attendee’s initials or name. That way the purse can pull double duty during and after the wedding.

With endless options, it’s simple to find your perfect saddle bag to ride off into the sunset while keeping your essentials wrangled inside. Whether sparkling, studded, stitched or stranded, canteen purses offer Western flair and feminine function.

FAQs

What are the key features of a canteen purse?

Canteen purses feature two small side-by-side pouches reminiscent of the canteens cowboys carried, joined together with leather lacing or fabric. They typically have adjustable shoulder straps and may include decorative conchos, leather fringe, studs, or other embellishments.

How big are most canteen purses?

Standard canteen purse sizes range from compact mini bags around 5 inches wide up to larger 8-10 inch saddle bag silhouettes. Consider what you need to carry to choose the best capacity.

What outfits do canteen purses pair well with?

From jeans and boots to floral maxi dresses, canteen purses complement both casual everyday looks and bohemian inspired styles. Sparkly and embellished saddle bags can also glam up evening wear.

Are canteen purses still a practical accessory?

While they no longer carry cowboy provisions, today's canteen purses remain a functional fashion accessory. The two separate pouches feature enough compact capacity to organize your small essentials and mobile devices.