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
Must-Have Dooney & Bourke Handbags for Every Fashionista
As a fashionista, finding the perfect handbag that combines style, functionality, and quality is essential. Dooney & Bourke, renowned for their luxurious handbags, offers a collection that caters to the discerning tastes of fashion enthusiasts. In this post, we will explore the must-have Dooney & Bourke handbags that deserve a spot in every fashionista’s collection. From timeless classics to trend-setting designs, these handbags are sure to elevate your style game and become cherished companions for years to come. Classic Elegance:For those seeking timeless sophistication, Dooney & Bourke’s classic handbags are a must-have. The timeless elegance of their structured satchels, such as the iconic “Florentine” or the refined “Saffiano Leather,” exudes a sense of luxury and refinement. These handbags feature clean lines, high-quality materials, and impeccable craftsmanship that stand the test of time. With versatile designs and neutral color options, these classics effortlessly complement both casual and formal ensembles, making them wardrobe staples for every fashionista. Chic Totes and Shoulder Bags:A fashionable and functional tote or shoulder bag is a necessity for every fashion-forward individual. Dooney & Bourke offers an array of chic options that combine style with practicality. The “Pebble Grain” or “Nylon” totes, with their spacious interiors and organizational pockets, provide ample room for essentials while exuding effortless elegance. The “Belvedere” or “Embossed Croco” shoulder bags offer a touch of sophistication with their sleek designs and adjustable straps, perfect for on-the-go fashionistas seeking comfort without compromising style. Compact Crossbody Delights:When you need a hands-free and compact option without sacrificing style, Dooney & Bourke’s crossbody handbags are a fashionista’s dream come true. The “Pebble Grain Crossbody” or the trendy “Nylon Crossbody Pouch” offer sleek silhouettes and versatile straps, allowing you to carry your essentials in style. These crossbody bags are perfect for days when you want to explore the city, attend social events, or simply embrace a carefree yet fashionable look. Statement-Making Designs:For fashionistas who love to make a statement, Dooney & Bourke’s bold and unique designs are a must-have. The “Logo Lock” or the “Beaded Tassel” handbags feature eye-catching details, vibrant colors, and exquisite embellishments that turn heads wherever you go. These statement pieces add a touch of personality and flair to your ensemble, allowing you to express your individuality and create unforgettable fashion moments. Collaboration Collections:Dooney & Bourke’s collaboration collections are highly sought-after by fashion enthusiasts. Collaborations with renowned brands, artists, or sports teams result in limited-edition handbags that are both exclusive and stylish. The “Disney Collection,” “MLB Collection,” or collaborations with fashion icons offer unique designs that showcase your passion, interests, or admiration for beloved brands. Owning one of these special collaboration pieces not only adds a touch of exclusivity but also connects you with a community of like-minded fashion lovers. Dooney & Bourke handbags are a must-have for every fashionista seeking a seamless blend of style, functionality, and quality. Whether you opt for timeless classics, chic totes, compact crossbodies, statement-making designs, or exclusive collaborations, Dooney & Bourke offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and occasion. With their impeccable craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and attention to detail, these handbags elevate your style and become cherished accessories that showcase your fashion-forward sensibilities.
You Can Already Pre-Order Louis Vuitton’s Pre-Fall 2024 Bags
Last week, Louis Vuitton debuted its Pre-Fall 2024 collection in Shanghai. The runway was full of both Louis Vuitton classics and fun, unique pieces with an eclectic flair. While heritage remains at the forefront of Nicolas Ghesquière’s design process, the collection also sees a contemporary edge. Chinese youth culture was also a point of inspiration for Ghesquière this season, who seamlessly melds the boldness and vibrance of Chinese style with Louis Vuitton’s roots in travel. Bags offer a look into Ghesquière’s cornerstone designs over the last decade, while some also embrace the brand’s love for collaboration. Partnering with contemporary artist Sun Yitian for Pre-Fall, Louis Vuitton icons are given a playful touch with the addition of adorable animals overtop heritage Monogram. Appearing on the runway first, the collection expands well beyond what debuted in Shanghai. Collectors will love classics like the OnTheGo, Neverfull, Pochette Metis, Alma BB, and more, all featuring Sun Yitian’s vivid art. The collection just dropped for pre-order. Discover our favorites below and view more via Louis Vuitton. Best Of Pre-Fall
A Detailed Review of My Gucci Luce Shoulder Bag
Gucci Ancora, the brand’s Spring 2024 collection, marks a new chapter for the House of Gucci. Designed by Sabato De Sarno, Gucci’s new creative director, Ancora is undeniably different from the Gucci fans were used to under De Sarno’s predecessor, but in a really good way. It is fresh while still offering up an air of classic Gucci. Disclosure: This Gucci Luce was gifted to our editor by Gucci. When it comes to the bags, there is an undeniable element of modernity, with a touch of classic appeal. Debuting with Gucci Ancora this season and first seen on the Spring/Summer 2024 runway, the Gucci Luce Bag is one of the first new bag designs under Sabato De Sarno’s reign. The Luce refreshes a House classic: GG Supreme, offering a chic, elevated feel. Luce, which translates to light in Italian, is also the name of Sabato’s dachshund—a tidbit that makes me love this bag even more, but it’s certainly not the only reason I adore it. This is the first Gucci bag I’ve owned in a few years, and I cannot get enough. Full details are below! Aesthetics Rating: 5 out of 5. The moment the first bags of Ancora hit the runway, I knew that Gucci through Sabato De Sarno’s lens was the Gucci for me. I love the combination of contemporary meets vintage, and the Luce Shoulder bag oozes that exact appeal. Many of us worry about buying a bag that will quickly feel dated or easily be tied to a specific time in fashion. However, that is a non-issue with the Luce, which has that archival touch, allowing the shape to feel timeless even though it is entirely new. Speaking of the archives, the GG canvas is one of the House’s most important motifs, and the long baguette-like body of the Luce perfectly complements the storied pattern. While there are two color options offering the classic Gucci vibe, I prefer the beige and brown canvas trimmed with dark chocolate brown leather to the navy version. What I love about a logo bag is that it’s a statement maker all on its own, but I also love that it can easily be dressed up or dressed down, and the Luce bag can do both. I’ve already worn this bag for both day and night, and I love the look, no matter how styled. Usability + Functionality Rating: 3 out of 5. The Luce comes in two sizes—small and medium, with my version being the smaller size (and the size that’s really just right for me.) I’ve often said how I’ve pared down what I carry out and about over the last decade or so, and that hasn’t changed. I need enough room for a small wallet or card case, my phone, sunglasses, a couple of lip balms, headphones, and keys. The bag’s interior offers plenty of space for my needs, and its elongated shape makes it fairly versatile in what you can carry, depending on how you organize your things. There’s also an interior zipped pocket, which, truthfully, I’d only use for thin items like a coat check ticket or business cards (truthfully, a chapstick or something else of the sort is too bulky to sit in the pocket). The Luce bag sits really nicely on the shoulder and doesn’t slide around at all, thanks to the fabric green and red Gucci Web shoulder strap. While I find this bag fairly useable, it’s not one of those bags you can easily get in and out of on the go, which is why it only gets 3 stars from me. The turn-lock flap opens and closes easily enough, but it is difficult to do while on the shoulder, which is something to be mindful of. Quality + Construction Rating: 4.5 out of 5. My job allows me to see, touch, feel, and even use a lot (and I mean A LOT) of bags, and Gucci’s quality is truly top-notch. The beige and ebony GG canvas is created on a loom, and when you look closely, you can see intricacies within the Monogram. Trimmed in dark brown leather with a very slight sheen, each stitch is perfectly finished, and I don’t have a complaint about the bag’s quality. However, I did tick off a half star as the bag is made of fabric, naturally making it more delicate. As I mentioned above, this is the first Gucci bag I’ve owned in quite a while, with my last two being from previous designers, and while Gucci itself has changed drastically, its attention to detail and craft has remained. Price + Value Rating: 3.5 out of 5. Regarding price, it’s becoming an increasingly difficult category to rate. Designer bag prices continue to rise, becoming almost astronomical, making it hard to make sense of. While this bag is beautiful, there’s no doubt about that; it’s priced just above the $3K mark for the small, clocking in at $3,200, which some may argue is a bit steep for a fabric bag. Still, the overall quality warrants its designer price tag, and because it’s a runway bag, I also think the price point is a bit more justifiable. Considering the cost per wear (and I truly think this bag can be worn a ton), the Luce holds a lot of value. Long-Term Relevance Rating: 4 out of 5. This bag is one of those rare bags that instantly feels like a classic, and that’s in large part thanks to its GG Supreme Canvas body. Besides its classic monogram print, there’s also the Gucci Web shoulder strap, which adds to the bag’s truly timeless appeal. However, this bag is still a new shape entirely for the House and also one of Sabato’s first designs for Gucci, which makes it hard to give the Luce a full 5 stars, though truthfully, I really wanted to because it does instantly feel like it will remain a classic Gucci bag. Overall Rating Rating: 4 out of 5. I was immediately smitten with the
Hermès Goes East/West With the New Faubourg Express
Last week, Hermès held its Fall/Winter 2024 Objects presentation, showcasing new bags and accessories beyond the brand’s runway offering. The presentation was a mix of refreshed versions of fan favorites and exciting new shapes. One of those new shapes, dubbed the Faubourg Express, is the Hermès take on the increasingly popular East/West shoulder bag trend, and IMHO, it’s one of the best we’ve seen. The shape itself screams chic on its own, but with the Hermès touch, the Faubourg Express knocks it out of the park. Introducing the Faubourg Express With a sleek silhouette that focuses on length, the bag is simple overall, meant to showcase the House’s unparalleled leather craftsmanship, with unique stylistic details that speak to Hermès history. Crafted from Evergrain calfskin, the shape features metal feet and a unique side clasp mechanism inspired by the Plume bag and the Quirus briefcase from the 1970s. Launching later this year, the Faubourg Express also comes in a mini size, which functions best as a top handle, while the larger size is the perfect little shoulder bag. If you’re looking for a stylish bag with an attention to quality and craft that is unmatched, the Faubourg is it. Overall dimensions are 16cm H x 21.5cm W x 7.5cm D for the mini and 22cm H x 29.5cm W x 9cm D.
Reviewing My New Balenciaga Hourglass Bag from Italist
What if I told you that the bag of your dreams was available to you right now at the amazing savings offered in Europe, no matter where in the US you are? Too good to be true, right? Wrong. I recently traveled to Portugal for an end-of-summer holiday, and of course, I did a little shopping. I was surprised by how great the deals really were, and I was disappointed that I didn’t have the chance to shop a bit more. We were only in Lisbon for half of our trip before heading south to Algarve, and I didn’t want to buy just to buy if you know what I mean. The only other bag I had really considered adding to my collection this fall, after much deliberation and musing if this bag is really here to stay, was the Balenciaga Hourglass bag. Unfortunately, Balenciaga doesn’t have a boutique in Portugal, so it was out of the question for me, but when I arrived home, I found myself still pining over this bag. Even though I’ve been obsessed with all things COLOR, I wanted a beige bag to pair with the head-to-toe ivory outfits I often gravitate toward in the fall. I love the statement of a chic all-beige look, and I was bummed that snagging this bag overseas wasn’t an option, and that’s where Italist came in. Introducing Italist Megs and I were recently introduced to the online shopping destination Italist, which boasts a selection of 1,500 of the world’s best luxury brands at the prices you’d find in Italy (typically 30-40% off), all without ever having to step foot through airport security. Italist does the legwork for you, connecting buyers to a network of independent luxury boutiques in Italy, all of which are vetted through intense screening processes to ensure quality and authenticity. All you have to do is sit back, scroll, shop, and wait 2-4 business days to receive your item by express mail. It’s really that simple. Reviewing My New Balenciaga Hourglass Bag I’ve had my eye on the Hourglass bag since it came out but was hesitant to pull the trigger thanks to the ever-changing color offerings and concerns over its staying power. After 3 years of remaining a popular choice for industry insiders and handbag lovers alike, often appearing in our Bags in the Wild Series as well as our street style snaps during fashion month, I knew the Hourglass wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon. When I saw this gorgeous embossed croc light beige version, I was sold, and when I took it out of the package after ordering it through Italist, I was immediately happy I waited to pull the trigger on this color. It is a very unique bag, a complete show-stopper in person, and I’ve gotten compliments each time I’ve worn it (if it’s good enough for Hailey Bieber, it’s good enough for me!) It’s no secret that this bag is ultra-structured, and I honestly forgot what it’s like to use a bag without any give. Still, because I ordered the small size versus the XS, everything I typically carry fits just fine – a small wallet, Ray-Ban sunglass case, my iPhone, some chapsticks, and a few random things comfortably fit inside. I like the back slit pocket for keeping my debit card inside for easy but secure access. Overall dimensions are 9″ W x 5.9″ L x 3.9″ D. I find this bag to be fairly versatile when it comes to styling options, and I’ve worn this both more casually and more dressed up for nights I’m heading out for dinners and drinks. The addition of the longer strap makes it perfect if you’ll be somewhere crowded or want to be hands (and fuss)-free. I do love the look of styling it carried by the top handle, though. If you’re a Balenciaga fan, you will love this bag, but the real star here was the price — this current-season Balenciaga Hourglass retails for $2,950 nearly everywhere else, but the price via Italist was $1,925. The bag I got is currently out of stock, but you can shop current Balenciaga here, as well as amazing finds from Bottega Veneta, Givenchy and more.
The Next Chapter of Gucci Valigeria Will Get You Ready for Summer Travels
Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny might be old news, but what’s not is the latest chapter of Gucci Valigeria, which launched this week. The campaign continues the journey that began back in October, celebrating the beginning of any journey and showcasing the art of traveling in style. The first chapter was also an ode to Gucci’s past while simultaneously looking ahead to the future, marking one of Sabato De Sarno’s first creative ventures for the House of Gucci. Now, the journey of Gucci Valigeria continues. The Journey of Gucci Valigeria With Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny at the forefront, campaign images showcase new pieces from the Gucci Savoy Collection that will leave you yearning for spring and summer travels. Classic brown GG Monogram is given a bold touch with neon accents, adding a modern edge to Gucci’s heritage pieces. Fusing House history with contemporary appeal, fluorescent accents further define duffle bags, backpacks, suitcases, and other travel accessories just in time for the warm-weather travel season. While bags and accessories stand out with bold trims, the outfits themselves continue to pair back to the bygone era of jet-setting in style. Evocative of 90s casual yet cool glam, Kendall Jenner is seen in various sleek looks alongside a stylish Bad Bunny. View images from the latest installment below.
Burberry Plaid Is Making a Surprise Return
What about British fashion has us all so deeply and perpetually obsessed? Is it the sharp tailoring of Savile Row that appears to be a no-fail remedy for every styling snafu out there? Or its celebration of the chivalrous gentleman and his suave suiting – a fashion fantasy I keep continually falling for? Maybe it’s designers like Vivienne Westwood, whose punk brand of Anglomania has been the cool-kid uniform for decades? Or perhaps it’s really the OG It-girls, such as Kate Moss and Alexa Chung, who, by marrying the eccentricities of their Warholian predecessors with high fashion, gave us our nearest and dearest It-bags? Either way, England, in many respects, appears to have been a birthplace of sorts for modern menswear. And it is by adopting these tailored, masculine cuts into their uniquely funky wardrobes that It-girls (and boys!) concocted the androgynous cool of today! And yet, when thinking of a quintessentially British brand, the first name that’s likely to roll off our tongue is Burberry, even though the reputation of its infamous check has made it the very antithesis of all that mainstream British fashion stands for! So, it truly comes as a surprise when I say that the Burberry check is making a comeback, and you’d better watch out for it! Checks and Challenges With a long and illustrious past, Burberry’s origins date back to 1856, when a 21-year-old Thomas Burberry (whose initials now grace the brand’s polarizing TB bags) developed a line of weatherproof outerwear. It wasn’t before another twenty years or so that the designer devised the Tielocken, subsequently named the Trench Coat following its institution as the standard issue military wear during the First World War. And it was only in 1967 that the signature plaid pattern, previously reserved as coat lining, took center stage following the brand’s Paris store manager’s attempts to make the display pieces “more colorful” by placing them inside-out! Ever since, the House check has been integral to the Burberry DNA, appearing on everything, from hats and scarves to bags and shirts, and on everyone, from Winston Churchill to Audrey Hepburn to Rihanna and Madonna. However, in the wake of the 90s logomania, the brand licensed its popular plaid to the consumer wilderness to capture the young, lower-price point market. And consequently, original and counterfeit Burberry-themed products populated shelves at a dizzying pace, so much that an episode of rain was thought to swarm the streets of London with a sea of Burberry umbrellas! But the brand’s check-related challenges didn’t end there. Kate Moss starred in an allover Burberry-themed wedding campaign, and a little known actress who was battling a drug problem, Daniella Westbrook, made a highly publicized appearance in a Burberry outfit, complete with her Burberry-clad baby daughter atop a Burberry baby-stroller! All Eyes on Lee Therefore, from the early days of the early-aughts, the label has been earnest in turning its fortunes. After all, in what the author George Orwell describes as a “class-ridden country” like the UK, nothing’s perhaps worse than nouveau-riche chic. And at the turn of the century, nouveau-riche is precisely what the Burberry check seemed to embody. Enter – Christopher Bailey, the man who not only saved the brand from complete dilution for the better part of the 21st century but also clamped down on counterfeiters and used his experiences at Gucci and Donna Karan to pioneer era-appropriate designs, much like Thomas Burberry himself. And it was thanks to him that the label consolidated its numerous licensees and found its footing in the industry, backed up by big names like Naomi Campbell, Eddie Redmayne, Cara Delevingne, Suki Waterhouse, and more. Bailey’s tenure was followed by a shorter stint from Ricardo Tisci, and finally, the brand found itself in the hands of Bottega alum, Daniel Lee. Now, as Lee stepped into the Creative Director’s shoes, change was already afoot. The brand had been gaining steam among the Copenhagen fashion crowd, and performance was most favorable in the post-pandemic Asian market, with revenues rebounding at unprecedented rates. And his “Bottega-fication” of Burberry – effectively wiping its socials clean and reinstating its serif-font logo and Prorsum-Knight emblem – has created greater buzz than ever surrounding the brand. Only time will tell if Lee’s new aesthetic (along with his high fashion makeover to the humble hot-water bag) can restore Burberry to its former glory. Out With the Quiet, In With the Loud? Of course, if you’re a millennial who carries around the memory of Westbrook’s Burberry baby-like generational trauma, this pivot to Burberry’s roots may cause you some degree of dismay, especially coming from a creative genius like Lee, who singlehandedly ushered Bottega Veneta to the modern day. And in light of that, perhaps Tom Wambsgans’ scathing diatribe against the brand’s ludicrously capacious bag on Succession doesn’t feel entirely unwarranted anymore. And yet, what the Burberry check encapsulates is a specific sense of Y2K nostalgia, especially for Gen Z-ers (such as yours truly). In fact, if you managed to look past the obvious problematic connotations, you’d see that the plaid was a major part of the hip-hop culture – who could forget Beyoncé’s Burberry swimsuit from Bonnie & Clyde (2002), another pivotal pop culture moment! Now, its association with the streets signaling a medley of the high and the low, its maximalist bikinis (that Lee has since reissued), RTW, bags, and more, a rather encompassing blast from the past that packs a punch and makes a statement. In fact, if nothing else, the Burberry check is now an ironic piece of fashion that speaks of inclusivity rather than exclusivity. And it is this sentiment that the Gen Z is luxuriating in, unearthing vintage pieces and reveling in their utter Britishness. Now, excuse me while I go bid on that checkered Burberry tote.
Louis Vuitton Heads to Shanghai for Pre-Fall 2024
2024 marks an important year for Louis Vuitton and Nicolas Ghesquière, who celebrates a decade at the Maison. His recent collections have been an exploration of his work over the last decade—a celebration of creativity. That celebration continues with Pre-Fall 2024, which Louis Vuitton brings to Shanghai, presenting its Women’s Voyager Show late last night. Furthering the art of creativity, Pre-Fall explores the idea of contrasts, with graphic patterns and bold colors juxtaposing refined, classic materials. The Maison’s roots are reflected within the collection, which also reinvents Nicolas Ghesquière’s distinct designs over the last decade in fashion. Pieces are also an ode to Chinese youth culture and style, with bold elements and pops of color oozing vibrant energy. An Odyssey of Artistic Expression The Maison also partnered with contemporary artist Sun Yitian, whose signature playful animals appear throughout the collection on ready-to-wear and bags alike, enlivening the collection and taking pieces to the next level. While there are undeniable elements of classicism throughout, they are explored in exciting, unexpected ways. Speaking of classics, the Maison’s cornerstone bags take center stage, appearing on the runway, but once again they are explored in fresh ways. Fan favorites like the OnTheGo, Capucines, and Dauphine are given a relaxed touch, while icons like the Petite Malle, Noé, and Side Trunk pay homage to the brand’s heritage roots. View bags from the runway below.