The 18th century was the time of the french revolution which resulted in broad changes all around the world. As well as this fashion changed which also effected the use of handbags massively. Just before the French revolution full skirts were very popular. However, after the French revolution this must have item/look had completely lost favor.
Instead a more slender, narrow Neo-classical dress took over. The only problem with this particular style was that the slender shapes left no room for pockets or any pouches to store items. This is when a greater need for handbags arose.
This was the time when the dependence on handbags and purses started to grow and people begun to realize their importance. The English began to call them 'resticules' or 'indispensables'.