Signature Elements: the brass turnlock is the quintessential signature of Coach bags. The Legacy collection highlights on this design element. Also well-known and well-copied is the ubiquitous interlocking C pattern. This pattern has been played down significantly because of widespread copying the move to higher end all leather collections.

Famous Handbag: The Carly handbag has been successful for sometime.

Founder: In 1941, the founder of Coach was swept up by the beauty of a tanned leather baseball glove. Working with six artisans in a NYC loft, the first line of bags comprised 12 options. The company was called Manhattan Leather Goods.

Bonnie Cashin designed the first handbag, inspired by paper bags.

Current Designer: Reed Krakoff has been the Creative Director since 1996, and has been credited to the rejuvenation of the brand.

Company Control/Exclusivity: Bought by the Sara Lee Corporation in 1985. The company went public in 2000, under the symbol COH. http://www.coach.com