When it comes to handbags, no designer can compete with Judith Leiber’s ability to create magic using opulent crystals and wildly imaginative and playful shapes. The Hungarian-born designer's lauded vintage minaudières (small, decorative handbags, often without handles or a strap) were made in the form of crystal-covered swans, cupcakes, lipstick, wads of cash, teddy bears and other delightful objects.
These dazzling objets d’art have been regularly seen in the hands of First Ladies, movie stars on the red carpet and even in the prestigious collections of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And like many pathbreaking inventions in the history of design, Leiber's purses and minaudières were the result of a happy accident.
In 1967, Leiber began working on her first metal handbag. The piece in question was named the Chatelaine, and the design was a graceful drop-shaped purse in gold-tinted metal. But when the samples came in, Leiber saw that the bottom of the bag looked greenish and discolored as a result of the plating process. She had the ingenious idea of applying crystal rhinestones to the base to cover up the flaws. The fabulous bag was a huge success and would become her trademark.
Born Judith Peto in Budapest, Leiber overcame many hardships before her breakthrough. At the start of World War II, she was working at the Pessl handbag company in Budapest where she quickly climbed the ranks to become a master craftswoman. When the war escalated, she and her Jewish family were forced by the Nazis to live in a cellar of a ghetto, and several of her relatives were killed in concentration camps.
“I designed handbags in my head to get through the misery,” Leiber said.
After the liberation of Budapest, she married Gerson “Gus” Leiber, an American GI, and moved to New York. In 1948, she began working for the fashion house Nettie Rosenstein. One of Leiber's first major pieces was the handbag embroidered with glittering rhinestones and pearls carried by Mamie Eisenhower at the 1953 inaugural ball. In 1963, she finally set up her own company.
Leiber’s whimsical designs embellished with Swarovski crystals and semiprecious stones defied traditional notions of luxury handbags. She also created striking clutches and bags with leather and fine textiles from around the world. In her 65-year career, she designed over 3,500 bags, which have been worn by First Ladies including Nancy Reagan and Laura Bush, pop icons like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez and celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner (who collects Judith Leiber bags).
In 2005, the Leiber Collection Museum opened in East Hampton, New York, as a permanent space to showcase her work. The minaudières remain coveted objects that are celebrated worldwide for their eclectic beauty and glamorous charm.
The value of a good handbag cannot be overstated — find vintage Judith Leiber shoulder bags, crossbody bags, sunglasses and other fashion accessories today on 1stDibs.
Judith Leiber Silver Snakeskin Deco Motif Evening Clutch Bag, 2000s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
From the renowned handbag designer - Judith Leiber's stunning silver snakeskin evening bag. With intricate semi-precious stones and rhinestone deco detailing, this clutch is perfect ...
Silver & Gold Judith Leiber Crystal-Embellished Hard Shell Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Silver & Gold Judith Leiber Crystal-Embellished Hard Shell Clutch. This clutch features a hard shell body, metallic gold leather interior, optional chain-link strap, and a top clasp ...
Judith Leiber Chocolate Brown Suede & Snake Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Our Judith Leiber purse finished in brown suede is the perfect evening bag.The exterior edges are lined in snake, along with gold trim for the hardware. Judith Leiber is a n...
Judith Leiber Snakeskin and Rose Quartz Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Judith Leiber Snakeskin and Rose Quartz Bag with pastes. Judith Leiber often went to vintage markets to buy antique frames and remount them. This one dates from the 1930's and is set with pastes and rose quartz navette...
Judith Leiber Gold/Rhinestone Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Judith Leiber clutches are always such a delight, and this gold rhinestone example is perfect for any special occasion or to add to you collection.It comes with a gold chain allowing it to be worn over the shoulder as well.It comes with the certificate of authenticity and a matching mini gold clasp...
Judith Leiber Gold Lizard Gemstone Top Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Gold Lizard Gemstone Clutch in good condition. Gold lizard trimmed with gold hardware, rose quartz and multi color gemstones along top edge. Top pinch lock closure open...
Judith Leiber Black Snakeskin Clutch With Strap circa 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This Judith Leiber Black Snakeskin Clutch With Strap from the circa 1980s exemplifies timeless luxury and sophisticated craftsmanship. Crafted from high-quality snakeskin, the clutch...
Judith Leiber Butterfly Crystal Clutch Bag with Leather Interior
By Judith Leiber
Located in Krakow, PL
Judith Leiber Butterfly Crystal Clutch Bag Sz. One Size Very Good Condition Description: Stunning Judith Leiber butterfly-shaped clutch adorned with crystals and gold-tone hardware. ...
Vintage Judith Leiber Python Snakeskin Nude Tan Jeweled Shoulder Bag or Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in San Diego, CA
Stunning vintage JUDITH LEIBER nude python shoulder bag or clutch and matching tasseled comb (can even be worn as a crossbody)! Signature Lieber silhouette that snaps shut to keep ev...
Judith Leiber Vintage Golden Japanese Obi Silk Embellished Clutch Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Judith Leiber Vintage Golden Japanese Obi Silk Embellished Clutch Bag is a stunning statement piece that exudes elegance and craftsmanship. Crafted from silk inspired by traditional ...
Vintage Judith Leiber Natural Tan and Brown Snakeskin Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Natural Tan and Brown Snakeskin Clutch in excellent condition. Tan and brown python exterior trimmed with gold hardware and multi color gemstones. Side pull lat...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Multi Color Gemstone Top Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Multi Color Gemstone Top Clutch in good condition. black lizard leather trimmed with gold and silver hardware with multi color gemstones along top edge. Li...
$410Sale Price|28% Off
Judith Leiber Quilted Champagne Silk Bag with Faux Coral Clasp, 1980's
By Judith Leiber
Located in University City, MO
Highly unusual Judith Leiber champagne silk handbag with trapunto embroidery forming wavelike rows that give this piece an interesting quilted ...
Judith Leiber White Karung Snake Jeweled Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Ivory Karung Snake Jeweled Clutch. This beautiful vintage bag by Judith Leiber is the perfect addition to any outfit. The bag features gold ...
Judith Leiber Red Embossed Alligator Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Red Embossed Alligator Clutch in very good vintage condition. Red embossed suede exterior with exotic alligator print trimmed with gold...
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Cheetah Minaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elegance and glamor right this way! This is a highly designed handbag by none other than Judith Leiber that will no doubt catch people's attention from across the room. This is a BEAUTIFUL Judith Leiber Black Swarovski Crystal Minaudiere Evening Bag Clutch in excellent condition. The exterior of this bag is covered in black, cream, and black swarovski crystals in a cheetah minaudiere shape. This handbag is vintage from the late 20th century and is in pristine vintage condition. On the interior there is a gold leather lining that holds a thin gold chain shoulder strap to easily convert between clutch and shoulder styles. No stains, smells, or missing crystals. Don't miss the adorable details of this bag like the mini leather coin purse and the adorable paws on the bottom. Pair this handbag with a Moschino gown, some gold Chanel jewelry...
Vintage Judith Leiber Tan Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Tan Lizard Clutch in excellent condition. Tan lizard exterior trimmed with gold hardware. Round tiger's eye and garnet glas...
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch in excellent condition. Red lizard leather trimmed with gold hardware. Double latch top closure opens to a red nylon ...
Judith Leiber Pale Peach with Black Beaded Design Handbag
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber pale peach with black beaded design handbag or clutch. Matching change purse included. Handle drop 19".
Judith Leiber Natural Tan Hornback Alligator Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Natural Tan Hornback Alligator Clutch in good condition. Natural light tan hornback alligator exterior trimmed with silver and gold ha...
Judith Leiber Black Embossed Suede Alligator Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Embossed Alligator Clutch in excellent condition. Black embossed suede exterior in an alligator print trimmed with gold hardware. Top button closure opens to a bl...
Judith Leiber Vintage Red Alligator XL Oversized Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
GORGEOUS Judith Leiber Vintage Red Alligator XL Oversized Clutch in excellent condition. Bright red alligator exterior trimmed with gold hardware and top dark red resin roman cameo...
Judith Leiber Tan Karung Snake Handbag with Stone Buckle Front.
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Tan Karung Snake Handbag Clutch with Stone Buckle Front. A beautiful piece by the talented Judith Leiber, this karung snake clutch/handbag ...
Silver & Gold-Tone Judith Leiber Crystal-Embellished Mini Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Silver and gold-tone crystal-embellished hard shell mini clutch by Judith Leiber. Metallic gold leather interior. Optional chain-link crossbody strap. Front closure. 1.5" width...
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Pleated Silk Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
BEAUTIFUL vintage Judith Leiber black silk clutch in excellent vintage condition. Black pleated silk satin exterior trimmed with silver hardware. top lifting closure opens to a black...
Vintage Judith Leiber Orange Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Orange Lizard Clutch in good condition. orange lizard leather trimmed with gold hardware and multi color gemstones along to...
1980s Judith Leiber Black Lizard Convertible Clutch Handbag w/ Obsidian Cameo
By Judith Leiber
Located in Gresham, OR
1980s Judith Leiber oval black lizard skin convertible clutch handbag with obsidian cameo clasp. Optional chain handle disappears into bag for clutch. Size...
Judith Leiber Vintage Tan Lizard Antique Silver Deco Rhinestone Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Tan Lizard Antique Silver Deco Rhinestone Clutch in good condition. Natural tan lizard leather exterior trimmed with antique silver hardware inlaid tiny dark gr...
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Alligator Clutch with Amethyst Gemstones c1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Black Alligator Clutch with Amethyst Gemstones c1980s in very good condition. Shiny black alligator leather exterior trimmed with gold hardware and a unique centered black resin emblem with 2 purple amethyst gemstones. Top lift latch closure opens to a black leather lined interior with one zip and one slit side pockets. Overall this piece is in very good vintage condition originally made c1980s. Clean corners and edges. Gentle signs of use inside with light scuffs throughout leather lining. Some fading on areas of gold hardware specifically on the top exterior closure hinge and engraved interior name plate. Please see photos for details. Attached leather shoulder strap easily converts between clutch and shoulder styles. Judith leiber is coveted by celebs and fashionistas worldwide for her exotic skin bags...
Judith Leiber Black and White Lizard Bow Front Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black and White Lizard Bow Front Clutch in good condition. Black lizard main body with white lizard front bow detail and top edge. Center top lift closure opens to a bl...
Judith Leiber Hand Bag White Karung Convertible Clutch With Semi Precious Jewels
By Judith Leiber
Located in Wallkill, NY
Wonderful Judith Leiber clutch! Totally surrounded by semi-precious stones. Converts from a clutch to a shoulder bag. Gently, gently used. Mirror in bag. Measures 7.25 in x 5 in. x 2...
Judith Leiber Beige Python with Tiger's Eye and Garnet Stones Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in New York, NY
Judith Leiber's wonderfully detailed beige python evening clutch has the optional use of a evening shoulder bag with their removable straps of python and gold hardware. Th...
Vintage Judith Leiber Red Lizard Gemstone Front Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Red Lizard Gemstone Front Clutch in very good condition. Beautiful cherry red lizard leather exterior in unique envelope style design trimmed with gold hardware...
Judith Leiber Lizard Leather Evening Bag Handbag Clutch - Semi - Precious Stones
By Judith Leiber
Located in Wallkill, NY
Judith Leiber Evening Bag. Finely crafted from beige genuine lizard and tonal top stitching. Features multiple semi-precious stones including onyx, amethyst, jade, garnet, lapis, ros...
Judith Leiber black Silk Crystal Fold over Handle Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber black Silk Crystal Fold over Handle Clutch in excellent condition. black silk trimmed with gold hardware and black swarovski cry...
Judith Leiber 1984 Bullfrog Miniaudiere
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Add this amazing piece to your collection! Circa 1980s, this Judith Leiber frog miniaudiere features multi color Jade, Amethyst and Onyx stones with...
Judith Leiber Pink Alligator Box Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Pink Alligator Box Clutch in excellent condition. Pink alligator trimmed with silver hardware and top crystal button closure. pink sat...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Silver Antique Crystal Top Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Silver Antique Crystal Top Clutch in good vintage condition. Black lizard leather exterior trimmed with antique silver hardware and crystals along top edge...
Judith Leiber 1980s Brown Snakeskin Embossed Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the exquisite Judith Leiber 1980s Brown Snakeskin Embossed Clutch, a luxurious and timeless accessory that exudes sophistication and glamour. Crafted from high-quality br...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Gemstone Top Shoulder Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Black Lizard Gemstone Shoulder Bag in excellent condition. Black lizard trimmed with gold hardware and multi colored gemstones along top edge. Unique middle eas...
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch in good condition. red lizard leather trimmed with gold hardware. Lift latch closure opens to a red nylon interior wi...
Judith Leiber 1980s Black Lizard Embossed Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the exquisite Judith Leiber 1980s Black Lizard Embossed Clutch, a luxurious and timeless accessory that exudes sophistication and elegance....
Judith Leiber Vintage Crystal Adorned Satin Clutch Bag With Gold Comb
By Judith Leiber
Located in London, GB
Judith Leiber Vintage Crystal Adorned Satin Clutch Bag With Gold Comb Black clutch bag crafted in textured satin with black crystal trim adornment. Detailed with crystal encrusted ...
Judith Leiber Black Silk Velvet Polka Dot Crystal Top Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Silk Velvet Polka Dot Crystal Top Clutch in excellent condition. Black silk with purple pink and black velvet polka dot pattern trimmed with silver hardware and b...
Judith Leiber Black Crystal-Embellished Evening Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Krakow, PL
Judith Leiber – Black Crystal-Embellished Bag Condition: Very good Condition Details: Minor signs of use including dents, stains on the lining and chain, wear on hardware; some deco...
Judith Leiber Bronze Snakeskin Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Bronze Snakeskin Clutch in very good condition. Bronze pleated snakeskin exterior trimmed with gold hardware and multi color gemstones along top edges. Top kiss...
Judith Leiber Black Alligator Purse
By Judith Leiber
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Judith Leiber Black Alligator Purse A refined and distinctive design from Judith Leiber, this circular-shaped evening purse is crafted in polis...
Judith Leiber 80’s Black Satin Frame Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Step into sophistication with this black satin clutch, a quintessential accessory for your most memorable occasions. Crafted to perfection, this clutch exudes timeless elegance in a ...
Judith Leiber Black Silk Clutch with Crystals
By Judith Leiber
Located in Alford, MA
Sleek rectangular black fabric clutch by Judith Leiber, the border ornamented with brushed silver metal and crystals. Magnetic clasp. Interior features attached mirror and side compa...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard & Gold-Tone Snap Clutch circa 1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Judith Leiber Black Lizard & Gold-Tone Snap Clutch from the circa 1980s is a stunning example of vintage luxury craftsmanship. Crafted from black lizard leather, this clutch exud...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Black Crystal Multi Color Gemstone Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Black Crystal Multi Color Gemstone Clutch in good condition. Black lizard exterior trimmed with gold hardware, black crystal...
1980s Judith Leiber Black and Gold Evening Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Stunning art deco inspired Judith Leiber frame clutch from the 1980s. Diagonally ribbed black courderoy style leather body with black reptile effect sides, base and trim. Contrasting...
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Tassel Charm Strap Clutch Shoulder Bag
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Tassel Charm Strap Clutch Shoulder Bag in fair vintage condition. Red lizard leather trimmed with matching red tassel detail and gold hardware. Interchangeab...
Judith Leiber Black Patent Leather Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Patent Leather Clutch in good vintage condition. Black patent leather in unique diagonal pleated design along front side trimmed with gold hardware. Black enamel ...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Green Enamel Top Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Black Lizard Green Enamel Top Clutch in very good condition. Black lizard leather trimmed with silver hardware and green enamel detail along top edge. Lift latc...
Judith Leiber Beige Lizard Tiger Eye Gemstone Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Beige Lizard Tiger Eye Gemstone Clutch in fair condition. Beige lizard leather trimmed with gold hardware and tiger eye gemstones along t...
Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Red Lizard Clutch in very good condition. red lizard exterior trimmed with gold hardware and unique floral filigree gemstone em...
Judith Leiber Vintage Saks Tan Lizard Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Vintage Saks Tan Lizard Clutch in very good condition. Tan pleated lizard leather exterior trimmed with engraved gold hardware along top edge...
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Dragonfly Clutch
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Judith Leiber Black Lizard Dragonfly Clutch in excellent condition. Black lizard exterior trimmed with a gold dragonfly embellished in crystals and gemstones. Back side slit pocket. ...
Vintage Judith Leiber Purple Lizard Clutch c1980s
By Judith Leiber
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Judith Leiber Purple Lizard Clutch c1980s in very good condition. Purple lizard leather trimmed with gold hardware and a lapis and quartz gemstones. Top lift latch closure op...