Introducing the Military Wife's Handbag, by BellaLise.
Create your very own custom made military bag! For the wife who's husband is deployed, to the child who misses their mom or dad, to the proud parent of a soldier, and everyone in between, this bag is for you. Start your custom order by following these easy steps, then simply call or email. We can create a special momento just for you.
Step one: choose your branch
Any bag can be made from any uniform branch. All of my handbags are made from actual retired uniforms. Choose from:
Step two: choose your bag style
After you send the top to me (bottoms as well of you want all uniform, or if you have a large bag order, or want the pockets from the pants put onto your bag), I get started piecing your bag and laying it out. There are two sizes for the Uniform Bag: 14" and 17".
The Diaper Bag comes in both the 14" and 17" sizes, but includes a long back pocket, perfect for a changing pad (add $10 for pad), and elastic side pockets. If you prefer to use pockets from the sleeves on the sides, we can do that as well, but the standard sides are elastic for storing bottles, sippy cups, or water bottles. Diaper bags start at $75.
The Dress Uniform Bag is a special tribute to that soldier with a little more fancy twist. These are made from dress uniform blouses, and come with or without a picture pocket. The epaulettes are attached to the strap, and any special buttons or pins can also be added. This bag starts at $75. Here are some examples:
The Patchwork Bag is the same measurements as the basic Uniform Bag, but has the sleeve pockets on the front. You can either have fabric and ribbons added, or go for a more plain look. The patchwork bag requires a lot more moving of the pockets, so it starts at $75. Here are two examples:
The Ruffle Bag is the ultimate girlie touch to your purse. You can add ruffles to any other bag as well. The ruffle bag starts at $85.
When you want something very personal to carry, you might want to try the Picture Bag. This bag can actually be created from one uniform, and made into two bags. The front pocket has a vinyl picture pocket added to it so you can proudly display your soldier's picture. Starts at $70.
The Small Clutch is a great option for those who carry something little, or for the Military Ball. They start at $35.
The Medium Uniform Bag is a great one for children, relatives, or someone special. It measures 13" x 9" x 5", and can be made with any uniform. Embroidery can also be added for a special touch. Starts at $55.
If you only have access to the trouser part of the uniform, the Trouser Bag may be an option for you. This makes a nice alternative, considering the cost of a new blouse. The Trouser Bag starts at $65.
Can't decide on one? Choose a Combo Bag! These can be mixtures of several. Maybe you want a ruffle on one side, a picture pocket on the other, or possibly something just slightly different from all the rest? This might be a way for you to have it all. Pricing on these vary, so please call for an estimate.
Step Three: choose your strap style
There are several options in the strap you choose. You can either have two 30" straps, a single, 45" messenger strap, or a 45" adjustable sliding messenger strap. If you prefer a different style (like on the bling bags, or something else), please ask.
Here are examples of two ways to make your fabric strap:
Here are examples of two ways to make your fabric strap:
If you choose to go with an adjustable slider, it will come with D rings and your choice of silver, gold, black, or rhinestone "bling" slider. No extra charge for silver or gold metal, or black plastic sliders. $8.50 for bling slider in silver or gold.
Step four: choose your lining
Please visit the "Lining Selections" tab at the top left navigation bar. If you don't see one as a choice, but you see it in the gallery of pictures, please ask. I may be able to get it again. Solid colors also available.
If you want to have uniform inside and out, then a full uniform must be sent. It takes both pieces to create a bag with uniform inside. If you want pockets added from the trousers, please send them as well, or you can remove the pockets and just send those.
If you want to have uniform inside and out, then a full uniform must be sent. It takes both pieces to create a bag with uniform inside. If you want pockets added from the trousers, please send them as well, or you can remove the pockets and just send those.
Step five: Personalize it
Do you need embroidery or patches made? There are so many options to make your bag unique, and all yours. Here are some examples of available fonts:
step six: choose your closure
There are a few ways to add a closure to your bag. The standard closure is a flap over the top with hook and loop. These are especially nice for diaper bags, since access is quick and easy, and can be tightened down if not as full, or loosened if stuffed to the top.
Another option is a magnetic snap closure. This works well for concealed carry bags, or if you prefer not to have hook and loop.
You can add a zipper closure for $10. This is nice for extra security for your bag. Here are some examples of all three:
Another option is a magnetic snap closure. This works well for concealed carry bags, or if you prefer not to have hook and loop.
You can add a zipper closure for $10. This is nice for extra security for your bag. Here are some examples of all three:
Step Seven: All the Little Details
Now that you have most of your bag order ready to call in or email, do you need anything else? Perhaps a name tape, a rank patch with a heart, a wallet, a keychain, or flower pin? Check through some of the other pages above to see if there is anything else that you need. When you're ready, simply reach me at one of the contact methods here. Looking forward to speaking with you!
photo gallery
In the following galleries, separated by branch, you can view previously created purses. Each one has been assigned a number. If you see one you like and wish to refer to it when ordering, this will make it much easier.
Army
Marine
Air Force
navy and coast guard
In Rememberence
BellaLise would like to take the opportunity to thank those soldiers who lost their lives serving all of us. I am able to make one bag for no charge per family member lost. This will be no cost for the bag or for the shipping. Additional items may also be ordered. This is a wonderful way to carry a piece of your memories with you always, and I'm so honored to be able to give something back for those who have fought and died for my freedom. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Here is a sample order of items created from a fallen soldier's retired uniform.
Support Our Troops
patches, wallets, key chains, flower pins, and miscellaneous
A collection of military items for you to sample. Any item can be changed to your branch of choice. Please email or call for pricing.