Don't Ridicule My Reticule!

Reticules were small drawstring bags used by Victorian women to hold necessary objects such as calling cards, money, and toiletries. These small bags were the first kind of handheld purse designed for women. Reticules are beautiful examples of the artistic handiwork at the time.

Before the reticule was popularized, women tied pockets around their waists under their petticoats to carry belongings. The side seams of the dress were open, and the wearer could slip her hand through the layers of fabric to access the pockets. To learn more about the history of pockets, the Victoria and Albert Museum has a very interesting article on the subject.

At the end of the 18th century, female fashion changed dramatically. The large, layered skirts went out of style and a slender dress silhouette became popular. As a result, women carried drawstring pouches that functioned as an exterior pocket. Decorative reticules often complemented the wearer’s dress.

Decorative reticules carried an assortment of essential objects for daily social activities. Such items may have included:

• Brooch
• Calling Cards
• Change Purse
• Coins
• Comb
• Earrings
• Gloves
• Hairpins
• Handkerchief
• Mirror
• Necklace
• Patch Box  
• Pocket Watch
• Ring
• Scent Bottle
• Smelling Salts

Early 19th century male critics ridiculed the reticule, claiming that women would overstuff the bags, which were meant to be small and delicate.

The reticules featured in this exhibit are from the Belleville area, dating between 1890 and 1930. They are part of Glanmore's Regional Collection. Many artifacts from Glanmore's collections can be discovered on the online artifact database.