Update: Leonello Borghi bags available at Barneys, Takashimaya in NYC and in select stores in Japan and Hong Kong.
The Ophidia Magazine Tote - 12x12.5x4.75 $2,817
It is always exciting to discover new and talented bag designers but Leonello Borghi is far from being the new kid on the block. He worked with designers such as Ralph Lauren, Prada and Armani for over a decade before launching his own collection in 2002. For Spring 2008, he shows a strong collection of bags that are functional and beautiful. I am especially drawn to the sleek Ophidia Magazine tote in Python above. It is the perfect size for me and has versatile expandable zippers that reveal contrasting white leather which makes it so chic in addition to giving you more room when you need it. Many bag designers have tried the "expandable" bag concept but none as well as Borghi.
More about Borghi after the jump!
About the Designer: Born in Florence, Leonello Borghi was drawn from an early age to the world of accessories. After working in Paris with Prada and its Japanese partners for three years, Borghi moved to New York. In 1999, Borghi was tapped to collaborate with Giorgio Armani on his inaugural accessories collection. In the summer of 2001, Borghi realized his childhood dream and launched his premiere men’s accessories collection. His bags were such a hit with women that in 2002 he debuted his first women’s accessories collection.
This season, Borghi utilizes exotic skins, glossed perforated leathers, and bold hardware to reinvent the handbag in a surprising yet functional way. Whether you desire a structured tote, an
oversized clutch, or unisex weekender, there is something for everyone in this versatile collection. Alluring skins of python, stingray, and frogskin, saturate the collection, which is compiled of statement pieces that exude a sense of empowerment, pride and artistic value. The neutral color palettes of black, safari, and olive are the perfect contrast to balance out the sleek yet urban silhouettes; ideal for everyday use. While oversized, voluminous shapes define and remain the core of Borghi’s aesthetic, additional features like expandable zippers reveal contrasting colors as well as increase the size of the bag. Lastly, innovative placement of the
pockets and straps, reinforce the function and distinct versatility of this collection.
Comments (10)
This screams sophistication and chic!
Posted by Anne | January 31, 2008 1:43:01 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 13:43
Where are his bags sold?
Posted by deborah | January 31, 2008 3:09:35 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 15:09
where can this be purchased? you don't specify?
Posted by wgs | January 31, 2008 3:26:46 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 15:26
This is nice, very nice! This guy should do bags for LV and Marc Jacobs.
Posted by Daisy | January 31, 2008 3:31:28 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 15:31
I knew you snobbers would be all over him! I am waiting to hear back from his team about the retail locations. Hang tight my lovelies, I will get the info to you as soon as I can!
xo
Posted by Bag Snob Tina | January 31, 2008 6:24:49 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 18:24
tasteful and very sleek
Posted by Sam | February 1, 2008 3:31:11 AM
Posted on February 1, 2008 03:31
every now and then, you come up with a gem - this is one of them. Agree with Sam - very tasteful. Where can I get this in London?
Posted by Anonymous | February 2, 2008 9:16:12 AM
Posted on February 2, 2008 09:16
This is a great example of a bag that every woman should own.
Posted by Linda | February 3, 2008 12:53:17 AM
Posted on February 3, 2008 00:53
I produced a show for him in NYC back in 2002 and I am so happy how successful he has become, and have been a fan of his bags ever since - he is truly one of the nicest people you will ever meet!
Posted by randala | February 10, 2008 8:13:13 AM
Posted on February 10, 2008 08:13
Christopher Kon makes a handbags that are also expandable. Check it out: http://www.modachique.com/rachel-bag.html
Posted by Diana | February 29, 2008 2:02:58 PM
Posted on February 29, 2008 14:02