If I were handing out awards for the most surprising and most improved bags (I think I should be!), Valentino would receive both trophies, hands down. Gone are the once-standard bows (better as dress adornments) and ruffles (more apropos on the coats). The bags have grown up and come into their own. In the place of girlish or lavish embellishments are sleek, chic bags of elegant proportion and style. While studs were the main course for some bags of previous seasons, they are now a side dish. A wise evolution. Ensembles like these – clean lines, frothy lace touches, fine fabrics and tall snakeskin boots – demand bags with close attention to detail that compliment and don’t overwhelm. Flat python wristlet bags were shown folded over as clutches or dangling freely as totes. Perfect for the urban sophisticate. Though they added quiet attitude, the color-blocked shoulder bags, in muted shades of both leather and exotics, were my favorites of the batch. Interest and excitement sans anything unnecessary. For Valentino, less is definitely more.
The patent bags with bows and flowers were cute but not something I would carry. They fit a very specific demographic. I am loving the drastic change. While most of these bags are shown as hand carry, they have a strap for added security – which I must have for day.. The exotic skins are beautiful and I like the juxtaposition of the studs used with restraint. The large multi-color snake back makes me want to see more and up close too! A good more.
I love the color-block bag (in leather and the exotic). Well done, Valentino!
Quite difficult to believe this is Valentino! It looks so much like Celine or another minimalist designer. Beautifully done.