Iconic British car brand Bentley has created a new line of handbags, the result of a collaboration between Daniele Ceccomori, head of Bentley product design, and French leather goods designer Vincent du Sartel.

Dr Ariane Reinhart, a member of the Bentley board, said: "More than luxury vehicles, Bentley’s models today are capturing more and more women’s hearts through their elegant lines and flawless materials."

The initial collection comprises two varying styles, each available in a selection of colours inspired by Bentley paint finishes, such as Fireglow Red, Linen, Neptune Blue and Imperial Blue.

The Barnato bag ($7,000) is a homage to the late English aviatrix Diana Barnato-Walker, the first British woman to break the sound barrier and a dedicated Bentley customer. Meanwhile the Continental ($5,500) is named after the Bentley auto model of the same name, boasting the same horseshoe shape evident in the back of the car.

The handbag designs were showcased for the first time at the recent high-profile Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California. Bentley will sell the bags at a series of trunk shows and events in the US, UK, Asia and the Middle East.

Founded by W O Bentley in 1919, Bentley Motors have grown to become one of the world’s most iconic luxury car makers.