Preliminary identification

Nordstrom Pleated Satin Evening Clutch with Rhinestone Clasp, c.1990s-2000s

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A deep burgundy satin evening purse featuring a pleated exterior panel, a jewel-encrusted lift clasp, and a drop-in silver-tone chain strap. The interior reveals a matching satin lining with the woven Nordstrom brand label.

Story

Founded in 1901 as a small Seattle shoe shop, Nordstrom evolved into a powerhouse of American formal wear and accessories. This evening bag embodies the classic late-1990s gala aesthetic, designed to offer high-end glamour for special occasions.

Maker / Origin

Nordstrom's in-house private-label accessories were designed to mirror luxury European evening bag trends at accessible luxury price points. Their formal accessories during this era focused on timeless silhouettes using rich satins and crystal accents.

Condition & Value

The exterior satin and interior lining appear clean with no major staining visible. Hardware displays light surface dulling, consistent with gentle occasional use. Department store private-label evening clutches from this era trade as functional vintage fashion pieces rather than high-end designer collectibles.

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

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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.