Preliminary identification

La Regale Hand-Beaded Scalloped Clutch, c.1980s

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a beautifully preserved, vintage evening clutch featuring a scalloped edge and a dense, undulating pattern of silver-toned bugle and seed beads. The shimmering, wave-like design catches the light dynamically, making it a classic statement piece for formal wear.

Story

Founded in the mid-20th century, La Regale became the go-to name for accessible evening glamour. This clutch represents the 1980s resurgence of Art Deco style, blending vintage Hollywood aesthetics with late-century nightlife fashion.

Maker / Origin

La Regale was established in the 1950s and quickly grew into a premier designer of evening bags and clutches. Known for their intricate beadwork, sequins, and metal mesh, they outsourced specialized hand-beading to skilled artisans in Asia, maintaining a reputation for affordable luxury.

Condition & Value

The exterior beadwork appears remarkably intact with no major losses, bald spots, or loose threads visible. The interior lining shows minor age-related discoloration/staining near the fabric label, which is typical for vintage bags but slightly reduces premium value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.