Small Yet Versatile, Introducing Fauré Le Page Take It Easy 19
If I am able to showcase brands and bags you aren’t as familiar with, I am doing my job. Of course, I will cover the bags that we all know – the brands that most people think of when it comes to the designer bag realm- but I also want to show some more unexpected and unknown things. Disclosure: This Fauré Le Page bag was gifted to Megs by FLP. This isn’t the first Fauré Le Page bag you’ve seen us cover; I’ve shared that my Daily Battle Tote became my go-to bag over the past year. Since then, the team has reached out and shared more, which has helped expand my love for the brand and its wares. A Compact, Structured Daily Carry Introducing the Fauré Le Page Take it Easy 19, a bag that brings all of the elements from the brand that I love along with a more compact shape, but large enough to carry my daily needs (including my iPhone Max and a water bottle). As I noted, the structured silhouette defines this line, giving a very clean aesthetic. The Scale Canvas also reflects the brand’s ethos and logo and is accentuated by leather overlays. I think my favorite aspect is the double hand-woven handles, which are crafted from grained calf leather and are a nod to the craftsmanship of sword handles The feminine color, named FLPink, was introduced in spring of 2023 and was inspired by the Bagatelle garden in Paris. The yellow contrast and the pink hue are a lovely combo, one I didn’t fully expect to love, but now I have started to wonder how I never thought that pink and yellow are a great pair. Other elements include the adjustable and detachable shoulder strap, an interior flat pocket, and the ability to personalize (as shown with the M) with medals. Price is $1,380 via Fauré Le Page.
Review: Celine Triomphe Shoulder Bag
When Hedi Slimane signed on to succeed Phoebe Philo as creative director at Celine the handbag world anxiously awaited his first collection. Celine fans watched and waited to see what Slimane would produce, and after debuting the top handle, structured silhouette that we now know as the 16 bag, other silhouettes joined the lineup as well. While his bags garnered mixed reactions from many, there was one bag in particular out of Slimane’s debut collection that instantaneously caught my eye. Spotted on stars like Selena Gomez. Angelina Jolie and Karlie Kloss, the Triomphe bag has proven itself to be my favorite bag from Celine season after season. Now for spring, the classic shape has been reimagined into a small, but sleek shoulder. While this review will be a little different than a typical Purseonals as this bag is a press sample lent to me by Celine, I was able to keep this bag for an extended period of time. This allowed me to not only feel and see the bag in person, but to use the bag on multiple occasions over the course of a month in order to provide an honest and detailed review. To make a long story short – I love the simplicity and the look of this bag immensely, but you can read my full review below for all the details! Aesthetics This bag is relatively simple in design with its sleek shape, clean lines and single shoulder strap. The standout here is of course the bag’s hardware, which is not only a unique design element, but also functions as the closure on the bag’s flap. The hardware is also what gives the bag its name, and the Triomphe logo is rooted in House history. Named after the Arc de Triomphe, the inside of the double links represent two Cs. The Triomphe motif has been used for years and works well atop the bag’s simple silhouette, which also has a bit of a nostalgic feel due to the bag’s east/west baguette-like body. This bag is relatively simple, and its talking peice is the hardware. Overall it gives off a vintage vibe and due to the simple design you either love the aesthetics or you don’t. Its appeal is both classic and timeless, and personally I love the look of this bag overall. Usability + Functionality I struggled between giving this 4 stars or 3.5, but I really felt like 3.5 was appropriate because even after using this bag a fair bit I still struggled with it some. For starters, the interior is pretty tiny, though long and slim, so you sort of have to organize your things just right. This makes going in and out of the bag on the go a bit difficult, because if you take something out you have to put it back in the same way so that everything will fit. Personally I don’t carry a lot of things at all, so even with dimensions of 8″ L x 4″ H x 2″ D I still was able to carry everything I need for the day—my iPhone X, a slim card case, lip balm, spray hand sanitizer, my keys and headphones. When it comes to getting in and out of the bag, the hardware closure is a bit tricky and it took me quite a few tries to figure out how it worked. Again, this bag is not a great bag for getting in and out of on the go, rather it’s more of a lunch or dinner out companion, so when considering this bag it would be important to think of how you’ll use it. It’s worth noting that the bag fits really nicely worn over the shoulder and is super light in weight even when full. Quality + Construction It’s important first to mention that this bag is a press sample, and press samples often get a lot of use as they’re sent off for use time and time again. This bag however showed very little signs of wear, and even after using it extensively for a month it still looked new. The leather is strong and sturdy but still soft. Its shiny calfskin finish has the smallest bit of texture and I like that the leather doesn’t crease at all on the back of the flap even after going in and out of it time and time again. The bag is crafted from calfskin leather and it’s lined in lambskin leather, which is a pretty lovely touch when nowadays many bags are lined in fabric or microsuede.I don’t own a Celine bag (yet) and I have to say sample or not, I was very impressed with the construction of this bag overall. Because of the vintage appeal and extremely well made body, I can see this bag remaining a beloved part of one’s collection for years and even passed down through generations. I couldn’t give a full five stars however because I did baby this bag a bit more than I typically would since it wasn’t mine to keep. Price + Value This bag is really luxurious and to me it looks expensive. And while prices of designer bags have become astronomical, making $2,200 sound reasonable in the grand scheme of things, it’s still a lot for a small bag. This is not a bag that you’ll likely use everyday which does make the price point not as accessible as one might hope, but I still gave 4 stars because the quality of the bag warrants it. Like I mentioned above this seems like a bag that you’ll have (and use) for decades to come, which makes $2,200 sounds a bit better in my opinion. Staying Power While this bag is a Celine by Hedi Slimane original, dating it to a certain time period that will inevitably come to an end, its main design element is rooted in House history. Other than the main Triomphe hardware, the bag lacks any garish logos or overt branding and unless you know Celine you
How Dooney & Bourke Handbags Combine Luxury and Functionality
When it comes to luxury handbags, Dooney & Bourke stands out as a brand that seamlessly combines elegance, quality craftsmanship, and practical functionality. With a rich heritage dating back to 1975, Dooney & Bourke has become synonymous with timeless style and enduring luxury. In this post, we will explore how Dooney & Bourke handbags excel in combining luxury and functionality, making them a coveted accessory for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Exquisite Materials and Design:One of the key elements that sets Dooney & Bourke handbags apart is their exquisite materials and design. The brand meticulously selects premium leathers and fabrics that exude sophistication and durability. From luxurious pebbled leather to refined canvas prints, each handbag is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The signature Dooney & Bourke logo, often engraved or embossed, adds a touch of elegance and authenticity to their creations. The thoughtful design elements, such as structured silhouettes, sturdy hardware, and precise stitching, not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also ensure longevity. Thoughtful and Functional Features:Dooney & Bourke handbags are not just about style; they are designed with functionality in mind. The brand understands the needs of modern individuals and incorporates practical features into their handbags. Multiple compartments, interior pockets, and organizational systems allow for easy storage and access to essentials. Whether it’s a zippered closure for added security, adjustable straps for versatile carrying options, or external pockets for quick access to frequently used items, Dooney & Bourke handbags offer convenience without compromising on style. These thoughtful features make them ideal companions for everyday life, work, or travel. Durability and Longevity:Luxury is not only about immediate appeal but also about long-lasting quality. Dooney & Bourke handbags are renowned for their durability and longevity. The brand’s commitment to using superior materials and employing skilled artisans ensures that each bag withstands the test of time. The robust construction, reinforced handles, and meticulous craftsmanship result in handbags that can endure daily wear and retain their beauty for years to come. Investing in a Dooney & Bourke handbag means owning a timeless piece that will remain in style and maintain its luxurious allure season after season. Versatility and Timelessness:Dooney & Bourke handbags strike a perfect balance between versatility and timelessness. Their classic designs and clean lines transcend fleeting trends, making them enduring fashion statements. Whether it’s a structured satchel, a chic tote, or a compact crossbody, Dooney & Bourke offers a diverse range of styles that cater to different preferences and occasions. From casual outings to formal events, their handbags effortlessly elevate any ensemble. The ability to seamlessly transition from day to night or from work to weekend makes Dooney & Bourke handbags versatile companions for any lifestyle. Dooney & Bourke handbags exemplify the harmonious fusion of luxury and functionality. With their exquisite materials, thoughtful design, practical features, durability, and timeless appeal, they are much more than just accessories — they are investment pieces that embody the essence of sophisticated style. A Dooney & Bourke handbag not only adds a touch of luxury to your wardrobe but also enhances your everyday life with its practicality and enduring beauty.
The Burberry Lola Bag Has Grown on Me… A Lot
The announcement of Daniel Lee joining Burberry is one that excited the fashion world, as Lee made waves with what many dubbed New Bottega during his time with the Italian brand. Burberry’s deeply rooted heritage has never waned, and with a new creative director at the helm, many feel hopeful optimism with what’s to come from New Burberry. While we wait for more of the new bags and items from Lee’s first collection to drop, there is a bag I have found myself coming back to and liking: the Burberry Lola Bag. Let me get this out of the way and say that I know some of you do not like the rebranded TB logo that took hold under Riccardo Tisci’s time at the brand. At first, I didn’t love it either. But logos are being reinvented across many fashion houses, and sometimes, it takes a bit to get used to a new logo and see if you really like it. The thing is, I have found myself liking many brand’s more simplistic shoulder bags with the newer house logo on the front, and the Burberry Lola is part of this group. The Many Iterations of the Lola Bag This is one of the first Burberry bags I began to see in the wild more, whether it be when I’ve been out myself and seeing street style or one of our photographers is doing so in different cities worldwide. I think this bag offers a nice combo of simplicity and plays on classic elements such as the Burberry check pattern and newness with the logo. It also continues to be a big push for the brand, which means not only does the brand believe in the bag, but it is also a bag that is doing well for the House. There are different sizes, materials, colors, and renditions to round out the Lola family. As summer is still on my mind (while I sit indoors hiding from the insanely humid Florida heat), it’s no wonder my pick is this vivid turquoise toweling version. Also, if you were wondering what the T in the TB logo stands for, it’s Thomas Burberry (not The Burberry, which I’ve heard some reference!). The signature check is cleverly integrated into this bag, as it is with plenty of other bags in the Lola family. The shoulder strap has a minimum drop of 10.6″ with a maximum drop of 19.7″, allowing for different carrying methods. I love this bag for colorful summer integration, but so many options are ideal for fall as well. While we wait to see what is to come for Burberry bags under Daniel Lee, check out some of my favorite bags below!
Louis Vuitton Taps into the Cargo Trend With the Vibe Bag
Few motifs in the fashion world are as ubiquitous as Louis Vuitton’s Monogram. The classic material has been around for well over a century, reimagined time and time again in new shapes and silhouettes. Its presence amongst the street-style set never wavers, and its latest bag is sure to be a hit, combining classic Monogram with one of the season’s biggest trends: the cargo bag. Inspired by an early 2000s hit, the Viva Cité, the Maison introduced the Vibe Bag earlier this spring. Contemporary and modern with that effortlessly cool appeal we all crave, its distinct shape is a more stylized riff on the classic Pochette Accessoires. Its release is reminiscent of the Multi-Pochette, offering a youthful take on storied Monogram. LOUIS VUITTON Monogram Vita Cité MM $1,215 via Fashionphile Blurred Lines Its shape offers little to fuss over, lacking any major frills. Rather, it takes on a utilitarian appeal, characterized by a distinct design. Two front pockets line the bag’s exterior, blurring the lines between function and decoration. Exterior pockets will fit AirPods, a small cardholder, keys, and other small accessories. The interior is much like that of the Pochette Accessoires, offering one internal slit pocket and a similar interior capacity. The construction of the Vibe differs slightly, with a few elements that add to the bag’s design. The first is the leather panel fitted along the bag’s bottom and side, and the second is an almost invisible exterior back pocket. The Vibe is fitted with two strap options, a leather strap for chicer outfits and a fabric shoulder strap for sportier days, allowing its wearer to customize the look based on their vibe.
Escape to the Seaside This Summer With Gucci Lido
Since his appointment, Gucci’s Creative Director Sabato De Sarno has done an incredible job at fusing Gucci’s core DNA with a contemporary appeal. Today’s Gucci is fresh but in a way that feels wearable and not over the top. It has an unmistakable air of chicness, one that makes all of us want to be a Gucci girl (or guy). This summer, De Sarno puts his own spin on Gucci summer, introducing a collection that is meant to be worn by the seaside and feels quintessential to the season. Gucci Lido is alluring and captivating, offering a fun, seasonal take on Gucci through Sabato De Sarno’s lens. Launching this week, the collection is an ode to the allure of coastal living, pulling inspiration from Italy’s storied seasides and the beach clubs, or lidos, that line them. A celebration of easy days spent under the sun, pieces embody a spirit of escapism, creating a longing for the perfect summer day—the type of day you wish would never end. A Coastal Allure New campaign images, lensed by photographer Anthony Seklaoui, showcase an array of seasonal staples. Resort wear essentials like swimwear and lightweight pieces meant to be worn on and off the beach are accessorized with poolside essentials like sandals and bucket hats. Novelty editions of House staples are given summer-ready touches, like colorful raffia Marmont and lightweight logo totes that will fit your Gucci beach towel (and more). Meanwhile, bags from Sabato De Sarno’s first collection are given a bright touch in neon hues of pink and green, adding a contemporary twist to House classics like the Luce and Moon Side. A series of in-store pop-ups will celebrate Gucci Lido this season, including Capri, the Hamptons, and Saint-Tropez. Discover more below.
5 Reasons Why the GO-14 is a Louis Vuitton Staple
In the wide world of fashion, it comes as a surprise to exactly no one that the heritage houses of today aren’t just trying to sell us a bag, a shoe, or a $2,000 neck brace. More often than not, what they’re trying to sell is an entire lifestyle, a piece of their centuries’ old brand DNA, condensed into said bag, shoe, or neck brace. So, of course, amid the Russian roulette of Creative Director hirings that places a design genius on the pedestal one day, only to axe them the next, the more effectively you’re able to translate the label’s legacy into a substantially sellable, distinctive (but heaven forbid if it’s easily replicable) product, the longer you get to stay. It is also for this exact reason that the singular monsieur Nicolas Ghesquière has had one of the most celebrated creative runs in recent fashion history, commemorating the tenth anniversary of his tenure at Louis Vuitton earlier this year. His secret? Why, a star handbag, of course! In fact, perhaps nobody has had as much success in encapsulating a brand within a single purse as Ghesquière. So today, it is one of his most emblematic designs for the house of Vuitton that we take a deeper look at: the Louis Vuitton GO-14. 1. In Keeping with His Lucky Streak From the early-aughts days of his era-defining Motorcycle bag (that, in a moment of peak Y2K nostalgia, recently returned to the fashion scene in the arms of Kate Moss), purses have been integral to Nicholas Ghesquière’s career trajectory. Unlike Balenciaga, however, Louis Vuitton has always relied on the sale of luxury carryalls, its monogram-emblazoned Alma, Speedy, and Neverfulls undergoing countless kitschy makeovers and pop-artist collabs under predecessor Marc Jacobs. When taking over the creative reigns, therefore, Ghesquière took Vuitton leatherware into overdrive with a smattering of fresh pieces that, instead of playing into the nostalgia of the monogram, adopted a more streamlined, contemporary aesthetic that still paid homage to longstanding house codes. And almost as a direct manifestation of Vuitton’s origins as a luggage label in 1854, the most prominent among Ghesquière’s debut offerings for Spring 2015 was the GO-14 bag, an acronym of Ghesquière October 2014, the date of its unveiling. 2. Malletage, the Art of Invisible Luxury The runway lineup was as expansive as it was refreshing, with models strutting boldly down the catwalk; new styles, like the Twist and the Petit Malle in tow. But what remained the most striking of the lot was a never-before-seen range of quilted pieces, which, alongside the GO-14, also comprised the Alma and the Speedy. In fact, upon first glance, the quilting felt rather reminiscent of Chanel, and indeed, eager netizens were quick to point out the resemblances. Soon, however, it became clear that this was no ordinary quilting, but instead, the Malletage, a detail once hidden in the depths of Vuitton’s historic trunk. Previously reduced to its sole capacity of providing padding and security to documents, the GO-14, along with the Malletage Speedy, Alma, and Petit Malle, now prominently featured this pillowy, crisscross overstitched lambskin pattern. And when paired with the new LV twist lock, the Malletage formed an entirely new graphic signature in clear contrast to the original monogram print. Thus, by bringing forth a hitherto invisible element to the forefront of fashion, Ghesquière noted, “There are certain universal codes unique to Louis Vuitton, It was about reappropriating and transposing them into a new setting.” 3. Going Back to the GO-14, Yet Again But despite its initial successes, much of the Malletage lineup, including the GO-14, had been discontinued by 2019, in favor of the burgeoning trend towards maximalist logomania that had slid into the zeitgeist, apace with the archival revival movement. Later for Fall 2023, the GO-14 was revived, this time in a slew of new colorways, both neutral and monochrome, and in three sizing options – the GM, MM, and the mini Pico. And with its resurgence right at the peak of the shift towards quiet luxuries, nearly a decade after its original inception, its popularity seemed like a no-brainer, popping up across Vuitton’s marketing pushes, perched gracefully atop the arms of celebrities such as Emma Stone, Chloë Grace Moretz, Léa Seydoux, Gemma Chan and Cate Blanchett, and across Instagram FYPs everywhere. Plus, with only a year to go for Ghesquière’s decennial celebrations, the revival of the GO-14 seemed like a fitting homage to one of the longest tenures of a creative director in recent fashion history! 4. Mastery of Magnificence Dubbed “a commencement and a culmination” in Vuitton’s savoir-faire video, the GO-14 demands a hefty creative process, with over 20 different steps required in the bag’s assemblage, extreme precision in the application of the 17-metre long gallon trim (which ultimately renders it much more difficult to perfect compared to traditional quilting), and a toasted, patinated satin finish resulting in subtle gradations of color and an almost iridescent shimmer all throughout. But it’s not just that; with the reintroduction of the GO-14 into its lineup, and by extensively highlighting its behind-the-scenes creative process via marketing efforts, Vuitton underscored its renewed emphasis on leatherware as a means to elevating its status from the monogram canvas-peddling luggage-maker of the past, and ultimately aligned with its strategy of – you guessed it – exclusivity. 5. Prices Only Continue to Rise In true Vuitton fashion, therefore, it comes as a no-brainer that the relaunched GO-14 is priced at a significant premium over its original prices from 2014. In fact, where the original PM and MM sizes had retailed for $3,950 and $4,300, respectively in 2023, the mini new Pico variant was marked at a substantial $4,450, with the MM and the GM at $6,750 and $7,450 concurrently. But with purse prices reaching for the stars, it’s likely that the GO-14 shall only continue to rise in price in the coming years (if not months). And this has divided buyers into two distinct camps – some attributing Chanel’s Flap (now having reached $10,000) to possess greater staying power, while
Hermès Autumn/Winter 2023 Part 2: Analysis of Current Bag Production
As discussed in Part 1 of this article, this season we are expanding the breadth of the seasonal colors article series. In that first part we examined not only the leather colors currently in production, in both regular leathers and exotics, but also information on the various leathers that each color is being produced in. This article, part two of the series, is a new section specifically regarding bag production, including bag/leather/hardware combinations currently being offered, exotic bags, limited editions, and push offers. The next and final part of the seasonal colors article series will coordinate the current bag production information discussed in parts one and two with the season’s scarves, shoes, and ready-to-wear. Notes About Current Bag Production Part 1 of this article provided an overview of current color and leather production, but of course, that doesn’t tell the entire story. Having produced these color charts for several years now, it is easier for me to spot some trends that I can share with you. Note that the following analysis is based on offerings since the beginning of the AW23 season of approximately 500 bags and is only based on what has been actually produced and seen. Again, please help us keep this article up-to-date by commenting about any new or different offers below. Boxcalf The first thing to note is that Boxcalf leather is back in a big way. While Box bags have been trickling in piecemeal over the last few seasons, this trickle has definitely grown into a stream. I haven’t seen so many Box leather bags being produced in many years. All hail the return of the BBB (Black Box Birkin)! As a matter of proportion, of 40 black leather bags offered recently, 12 of those were made of Box leather. Further, the breakdown of hardware on these Black Box bags includes both GHW and PHW and also RGHW (on a Black Box Constance). The majority of the Black Box bags in current production include mostly Birkins in every size, but Box Kellys and Constances have been offered as well. Further, Boxcalf is also being produced in Rouge H and Vert Fonce. I assume that as the season progresses, we may see a few more colors being produced in Box; a good guess based on prior seasons’ production would include Bleu Saphir and Fauve. Hardware Colors Another thing to note is that there seems to be a slight uptick in the production of Gold Hardware (GHW) bags in proportion to Palladium Hardware (PHW) bags. So far this season, the production of GHW bags has been dominant in: PHW was only dominant for Mauve Pale and Vert Fizz. The following colors so far have had a good variety of hardware options: However, again, this information doesn’t show the entire picture: Birkin vs Kelly Production It does seem that, currently, Kelly production is slightly greater than Birkin production, at least for regular leather bags; however, this is likely because there are many more regular leather variations of Kelly bags than Birkins. These variations include: while the Birkin variations include: With that said certain colors do seem to be produced more often in one bag style or the other. For example, Craie, Gris Meyer, Gris Neve, and Mauve Sylvestre seem to be more commonly found in Birkins this season, and Celeste, Etoupe, Mushroom, and Vert Comics have been more frequently produced in Kellys. Additionally, Ostrich bags seem to be more frequently available in Birkins rather than Kellys this season. There are some colors that do not seem to have been used for Birkins at all yet, including Bleu Jean (which is being utilized mostly for Mini Kellys so far). As an interesting note, many of the green (and green-blue) shades in general seem to be much easier to find in the various Kelly styles: this includes Vert Comics, Vert Criquet, Vert Cypress, Vert de Gris, Vert Fizz, Vert Fonce, Vert Jade, Bleu Jean and Celeste. Craie, Gold, Noir, and Orange all seem to be used pretty evenly for both Birkins and Kellys by this point in the season. Specific combinations that seem to be in slightly greater production include Bleu Jean and Celeste Mini Kellys in Epsom, Craie B25s in Togo with GHW or RGHW; and Gold B25s in Togo. Special Bags and Push Offers There are a wide variety of Push Offer and Special Versions of bag styles this season: Multicolor and Multileather Bags Bicolor/Verso Bags so far, all of these seem to be produced as Birkins and include: Tricolor Bags, on the other hand, have been mostly available as Kellys and include: Colormatic The Colormatic Birkins and Kellys are still being offered, either in Chai with Lime, Mauve Sylvestre, and Bleu Brume, or in Nata with Chai, Cuivre, and Bleu Brume. Touch Touch Bags are very popular and are produced in both Birkins in Kellys in the smaller sizes (B25 and B30, Mini Kelly, K25 and K28). The leather combinations currently being utilized are Togo or Veau Madame with Lizard or Togo with Crocodile: Lizard: Crocodile: Birkin Fray Fray It seems that fewer of these are being produced, and the sole Noir B35 Fray Fray seen recently may have been a holdover from a prior season. Bolide on Wheels The Bolide on Wheels has been offered in several colorways, including Bleu Saphir with Orange Wheels, and Vert Fizz with White Wheels. Cargo Bags Cargo bags are still being produced in various versions, including the B25 in Noir, and in several Picotin versions, including Beige Marfa/Ecru Toile with GHW, Noir, and Vert Comics. Côte à Côte Tuffetage Birkin This particular style has been making the rounds, although a corduroy Birkin might not be everyone’s cup of tea: Noir Swift/Blue Corduroy PHW. >En Desordre The popular En Desordre bags are also on offer and seem to be a somewhat regular (if still rarer) seasonal offering, like the Touch bags. The Kelly en Desordre production seems to be more frequent and available in more colors – Craie with GHW or PHW,
Unveiling Prada’s Latest: A Bold New Spin on the Iconic Galleria Bag
A set of bags made their way to iconic status in that they quietly, and sometimes loudly, stand the test of time. The Prada Galleria holds one of these coveted titles. Though the bag was only introduced in 2007, it feels like it has been around for far longer, and much of that is due to the House codes and overall design. The name comes from “Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II,” where Miuccia Prada’s grandfather, Mario Prada, opened his first Milanese store in 1913. The bag is as functional as it is sophisticated, with three multifunctional compartments on the interior, leaving this as a bag that will never go out of style. A Re-imagined Classic This new assortment of eight exclusive special edition styles takes the beloved shape and adds vibrant, multi-colored geometric patterns, which brings new life to the bag. These bags combine pop-inspired colors with distinctive shapes on Saffiano leather and patterns that make this classic bag feel fresh and new. These exclusive styles are all available in the small size of the Galleria, which measures 16.5cm H x 24.5cm W x 11cm L. The functional interior we’ve come to love from this bag is composed of Nappa leather with two pockets, including one with a zipper. The three compartments (a larger center and two equal on the front and back with zip closures) allow optimal organization. There is a detachable, adjustable leather shoulder strap and a removable key ring. The bold color choices and small touches, like the Prada Triangle Logo plaque with offset leather behind it immediately make the bag feel special. The patterns and colors, while incredibly striking, don’t deter from the simple beauty of the bags themselves. Prada’s lens on these bags includes a campaign in collaboration with conceptual artist Alex Da Corte, featuring the styles on Scarlett Johansson against Da Corte’s colorful backdrops. Copper and strawberry, aquamarine and jade green, maize yellow, and petal pink are just some of this collection’s wildly enticing color combinations that explore hues and patterns. The Original Galleria Bag If a single color or different size options interest you, the original Galleria remains an option. Here you can opt for a larger daily carry, think work bag but not cumbersome, or a mini size if that suits your style. The expected three compartments and usability with the detachable and adjustable strap remain, and there are even made-to-order options. Saffiano Leather: Prada’s Signature Durability Prada Saffiano leather can withstand the natural wear and tear of daily carrying, so scratches will show far less on these bags. It’s sturdy, easy to wipe down, luxe, and durable. Prada’s Saffiano Lux is a calf leather which has been pressed with the characteristic Saffiano grain print and has become synonymous with luxury and traditional Italian leather goods production. A luxury leather bag remains a handbag must, but one that can withstand the test of time and still look brand new is a major plus! The Saffiano technique was patented by founder Mario Prada and has been used in every facet of the brand. The material has deep roots within the brand and it is one of the most recognizable elements of Prada’s storied history. The Prada Galleria will forever be one of the most timeless handbag shapes ever. This bag has been reinvented in ways that stay true to the original form while also contemporizing and modernizing the beloved Prada silhouette.
A Review and Reveal of My Vintage Louis Vuitton Epi Pont Neuf PM
I’ve had my eyes on Louis Vuitton’s iconic Epi leather for quite a while now. While I had originally wanted to purchase a black Alma BB in Epi leather on the primary market, I began to shift my focus late last year when I realized two things. Firstly, I decided that I wanted a black bag that was a bit sleeker and slimmer in profile, and secondly, the very many colors of Louis Vuitton Epi leather are so vast (and stunning) that I couldn’t imagine the first Epi leather piece I purchased be black. After musing on and on about how Louis Vuitton’s Epi leather deserves more love, I decided it was finally time to add a piece to my collection. The secondary market was definitely the place to go, thanks to the very many options (and the sheer affordability). I began my search and ultimately went with Fashionphile because the options were endless. After scouring through an impressive selection, I had it narrowed down to the Epi Pont Neuf in Toledo Blue or the Epi Soufflot in Mandarin Orange. I think it’s obvious which bag I chose, and I’m already itching to add another Epi Leather piece to my collection. Read on to discover why! Aesthetics It’s not often that I have nothing bad to say about the look of a bag, but I have nothing bad to say about the aesthetics of the Pont Neuf. For starters, the silhouette is absolutely stunning. It’s simple yet classic, and while you could use the word basic here, this bag is anything but. I adore its shape and the way it sits in the crook of my arm. The textured Epi leather looks and feels nice, picking up the bold-blue hue beautifully. When I first used this bag, I wore it out to a nice dinner with friends and was more dressed up than my usual day-to-day. It paired perfectly with jeans and booties, plus a turtleneck underneath a blue striped button-up and my pink vintage coat. I got compliments on the bag from two of my friends immediately, but ultimately, I worried it would look too fancy with my typical dressed-down vibe. However I was wrong, and once I styled it for daytime, I quickly realized that the bag is incredibly versatile. Usability + Functionality I wanted to give this bag another 5 stars because that’s how happy I am that it’s now part of my collection, but the truth be told is that when it comes to usability, this one doesn’t completely knock it out of the park, but it’s near close! If you’re someone who likes the hands-free aspect of a crossbody bag, this isn’t the bag for you, and because of the top-handle body, it’s a bit difficult to maneuver in and out of on the move. However, there are two easy access pocket compartments on the front and back of the bag, which are both great spots to store things you need quick access to, like a MetroCard or your iPhone. In terms of the interior of the bag itself, that’s where this silhouette really shines. The bag has two working zippers that open and close all the way around, allowing the bag to open up wide. There is ample room in the interior as well as multiple pocket options, and it has been a long time since I owned a handbag big enough to carry a book, my Moleskin, and a pouch with cosmetics on top of my daily essentials. A true win. Quality + Construction I always believed the quality of Epi leather to be unmatched, and now that I own an Epi leather bag (one that’s over two decades old, not to mention), I can attest to that. When I was comparing the two bags I had narrowed it down to, I still wasn’t leaning well in either direction, so I consulted the condition and the details of each bag. Something spoke to me about the year that the Pont Neuf was from—1998, and that odd detail was the deciding factor for me. This was my first experience using Fashionphile personally, and even though I mostly felt at ease, buying pre-loved can still feel a little daunting due to authentication concerns. However any small worries I had disappeared when I got the bag. Fashionphile had listed the bag in very good condition, but I still was shocked to see that it arrived looking nearly brand new, at 24 years old. Each time I’ve gotten complimented on this bag, I find myself boasting the same sentiments, telling its admirer that the bag is vintage from 1998 but looks like it was never worn! Even the smooth leather on the sides of the bag doesn’t contain a single scratch. This bag might be the newest addition to my collection, but it’s the oldest bag I own, and I recently mentioned to a friend how it may be my most prized possession. Price + Value This bag was $655 pre-loved from Fashionphile, and it is 100% worth the price, given both the bag’s quality and construction itself as well as the bag’s pre-loved condition. I can’t stress enough how worth it an Epi leather bag really is. And to be quite honest, it would be remiss not to mention the value of purchasing an Epi leather bag from the secondary market, especially if you’re not dead set on getting a newer silhouette. Staying Power It’s hard for me to really weigh in properly on staying power here since the Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Pont Neuf has been discontinued, and the Pont Neuf now has a different meaning altogether. However, because this shape is such a classic, I still think the bag deserves 3-stars. Not to mention, Epi leather is an iconic part of Louis Vuitton’s history, and it remains a beloved choice for handbag lovers to this day, continually produced in various shapes and colors season after season. Overall Rating Overall, I’m incredibly excited about having this special piece in my collection, and though it’s not