Cesare Paciotti

Milan! This is where we belong, home to the world's best bag brands. We get to see designers like Cesare Paciotti, who we love but have limited exposure to in the US. The presentation was in Cesare Paciotti's showroom which is across the building's courtyard from their store on Via Sant'Andrea. We walk in to a party atmosphere at 2 o'clock in the afternoon - DJ, mood lighting, bar and hor's devours buffet. The collection hits you immediately with its bold, strong personality. It is all about showing off, like the decadent 80's from which the line is inspired. This is glam rock with a hard edge - a little bit Debbie Harry and a little Adam Ant. The shoe collection is ridiculously hot but the bags are way more wearable and just as incredible. I tried to pick my one favorite but couldn't pare it down from 3: an uber soft lambskin tote that is slightly puffy with limited hardware, just a small signature dagger on the corner and the zipper pull with a bigger dagger. It comes with a card holder that dangles from the strap - super easy access for shopping!; the majorly chic trapezoid shape clutch with dagger hardware closure (lift up the dagger to open) which comes in satin or a purple tejus (looks like watersnake), serious lust and luxe; and last but not least, to show that people are already forgetting there was ever a recession, calf hair is huge this Fall, here in a flashy leopard print on an understated satchel. I am betting my money that we will be seeing a lot more Paciotti across the pond with this perfect balance of design and wearability and a price point that is (relatively) accessible. Check the Cesare Paciotti website to find a boutique near you!