My Mother’s Handbag 

By: Joan Doroba

Type: Handbag 

Date: 2018 

Title: My mother’s handbag 

Location: Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) 

Place of origin: China

Object details: Black handbag with gold detailing 

Categories: Accessories 

Brief description: A black bag with some gold detailing on the handles and the tassel holder Physical description: This black handbag with gold detailing presents a sleek and polished exterior crafted from high-quality leather. The smooth texture of the black leather exudes sophistication, while the gold detailing, including the zipper pulls, metal accents, and logo embellishments, adds a touch of opulence. The gold elements create a striking contrast against the black background, catching the eye and elevating the bag’s overall aesthetic. The structured design and reinforced handles showcase a commitment to both style and durability. When opened, the interior reveals a well-organized space with various compartments, all accentuated by the interplay of black and gold elements, creating a visually appealing and cohesive look. This handbag combines classic elegance with luxurious detailing, making it a versatile accessory for both formal and casual settings. 

Materials and technique: the handbag is made of good quality leather and the gold detailing on the handles and zipper are clotted with gold which does not fade or rust.

Personal Connection: 

I selected a handbag with significant historical value, a cherished possession that once belonged to my mother. This exquisite accessory held a special place in her heart, serving as one of her favorite companions during a pivotal chapter in our lives. The story of this tale is set in Kenya, where my mother secured a new job that eventually led us to relocate to another country called Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) in 2018. It is a French speaking west African country bordered by Liberia, Ghana, Mali, Burkina Faso, Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic ocean.

As my mother embarked on this exciting professional journey, she realized the need for a fresh wardrobe to complement her new role. Among the carefully curated selection of clothes, shoes, and accessories, one standout piece was a sleek black handbag, sourced from the renowned Chinese brand Turnnea, known for its commitment to crafting high-quality bags. The bag quickly became an integral part of my mother’s daily routine, a reliable and stylish companion that effortlessly elevated her work ensembles. While my personal taste tends to gravitate toward smaller, simpler bags or backpacks, I couldn’t help but appreciate the enduring charm of this particular handbag. Its significance in our family narrative is underscored by the wear and tear it proudly bears, especially noticeable around the handles—a testament to the countless times my mother reached for it when meticulously selecting her workday attire. Because my mother held such a deep affection for this bag, she took the initiative to have the handles professionally repaired, ensuring its continued use. 

Fast forward three years, when the time came for my inaugural journey to Canada for fashion school. While preparing for my trip, my mother pleasantly surprised me by gifting me her cherished handbag. With heartfelt words, she conveyed, “As you embark on this new chapter, may this bag accompany you everywhere, just as it did for me.” This marked one of the most incredible moments I’ve shared with my mother, a memory I will forever hold close to my heart. The handbag seamlessly transitioned into my daily life, becoming my preferred choice for various occasions. Although I may not use it as frequently as I did in my initial months in Canada, my dedication to caring for it remains unwavering, treating it as if it’s in constant use. In essence, this handbag symbolizes not just a fashion accessory, but a tangible link to a chapter of our lives filled with change, growth, and the pursuit of new opportunities.