Bonnie Cashin

Fashion Designer, Bonnie Cashin founded the leather accessories company Coach. The California-born designer got her start by making costumes for Los Angeles showgirls as a teenager. She moved to New York City soon after to design for Broadway at age 19. She continued to hone her skills as a designer working on film sets in the 1940s during the Golden Era of Hollywood. It was in the ’50s that she returned to the Big Apple to cultivate Bonnie Cashin, The Sportswear Line. Cashin was known for her innovative and functional design philosophy. Cashin designed garments in neutral earth tones, staying away from loud patterns, bold colors, or pretty pastels so often used by other designers of the era. Her designs often incorporated bold colors, leather detailing, and functional pockets. Her style lacked adornment or details so that they could be worn for the every day and not just a special occasion. However, Cashin is attributed to introducing the use of leather as a material for clothing apparel. Her love of leather led to the founding of Coach in 1962 and the release of the first “tote” bag, the Cashin-Carryall.

Bonnie Cashin also played a significant role in the vintage fashion industry. Cashin popularized the concept of layered clothing, introducing the use of layering for both style and functionality. This approach had a lasting impact on fashion, influencing how individuals approached dressing and creating a distinctive look that is still relevant today. One of Cashin’s signature elements was her use of leather and metal accents in her designs. She introduced leather as a fashion material, not just for outerwear, and utilized metal fastenings and hardware creatively. This aesthetic has become iconic and is appreciated in vintage fashion. Cashin played a significant role in elevating the status of ready-to-wear clothing. She emphasized the importance of quality craftsmanship and materials in off-the-rack garments, contributing to the acceptance of ready-to-wear as a legitimate and desirable category in the fashion industry. Cashin designed a line of handbags for Coach, introducing the concept of functional and stylish handbags. Her designs, including the iconic Cashin Carry tote, reflected her emphasis on practicality without compromising on aesthetics. Vintage Cashin-designed Coach bags remain collectibles. Cashin’s influence goes beyond her designs; she is recognized as a trailblazer and a visionary in the fashion industry. Her contributions to American sportswear and her role in shaping the modern handbag have left an indelible mark on the industry. Cashin also contributed to fashion education by teaching at various institutions. Her teachings influenced a new generation of designers, contributing to a broader impact on the evolving landscape of fashion. Bonnie Cashin was influential because she made fashion more comfortable and accessible. It is the main reason her designs are highly sought after today.