Kisslocks

Kisslocks, also known as kiss-lock clasps, are a type of mechanical fastener used on the frames of small purses, coin purses, and handbags. The defining feature is a pair of interlocking knobs or balls at the top of a hinged metal frame; when pressed together the balls engage to lock the opening, and pulling them apart releases the lock to open the bag.

The mechanism typically relies on a spring-loaded linkage within the frame, sometimes with an additional catch to secure the closing. Variations include different shapes of the clasp, such as round, oval, or rectangular frames, and materials ranging from plain metal to enamel-coated or jeweled finishes. The clasps can be found on a variety of bag sizes, from tiny coin purses to larger minaudières.

Historically, kiss-lock closures appeared in the late 19th century and remained popular through the early to mid-20th century. They are especially associated with the Art Deco and flapper eras of the 1920s and 1930s, and they are a common feature on vintage purses from that period. Today, kiss locks are frequently encountered in vintage collections and are sometimes reproduced for retro-inspired handbags.

Materials commonly used for kiss-lock frames include brass, nickel silver, and other metal alloys, with finishes such as gold-tone, silver-tone, or antique. Some historical examples incorporate decorative elements like enamel, mother-of-pearl, or rhinestones, enhancing their aesthetic as much as their function. Proper care involves avoiding excessive force on the spring mechanism and having springs or catches serviced by a repair professional if they begin to fail.