If there’s one thing that we’re zooming into this season, at least for the accessories we carry on our shoulder, it’s hardware. And this season’s It-bags are tinkering with many splendid, innovative versions of those, far different from their predecessors in terms of how they’re used and where they’re used. It’s not just crisp metallic clasps or constast zippers we’re talking about either — from a fascination with rounded hoops, geometric-style bars and chains in unexpected places, you’ll find that it’s now way harder to pick a favourite.
Full Circle
Circular objects always make for very classy designs, so it’s no surprise that we’re seeing them all over the latest bags too. Chloé’s Faye Day is one of those breezy crossbody/shoulder bag varieties that have lots of room for your daily essentials, but what we love is the utilitarian draw of the otherwise feminine design, thanks to that signature ring loop and hanging chain. Of course, you’d have seen JW Anderson’s now-classic leather bag all over the most stylish mavens, and surely, that gold-tone circular barbell piercing stands out even more in a modern black-and-white design. As for Marni, the hoop goes oversized, and is now transformed into a round metal and leather handle that anchors the more freeform shape of the calfskin bag.
Bar None
The cool set’s favourite minimalist bag brand is here with this pared-back design, a sculpture of a bucket bag made with textured leather on a rounded base, and a touch of that silver toggle. Similarly, other bags have jumped on the metal bar trend that have been so popular among under-the-radar brands, especially those who favour minimalist or geometric accents. Edinburgh-based Strathberry recently joined the On Pedder family with their luxury Spanish leathers, clean designs, and that signature and functional metal bar, while long-standing luxury favourites Prada has a burnished gold hardware that’s supposed to remind us of antique book bindings — quaint and modern, all at once.
We Need Closure
Refined, or industrial? Take your pick on two very different designs. First, this Mulberry beauty by creative director Johnny Coca, named after the Amberley Castle in the English countryside; other tan equestrian-inspired stitching and quilting details, plus those saddle-like leathers, there’s a classy Rider’s Lock that keeps the bag closed, an original hardware design that’s inspired by the metal on horse bits and bridles. That those manage to look this refined and slender is a testament to his ingenuity. Of course, you’ll wanna reach for Off-White for something more unconventional; the equally-lauded Virgil Abloh has made this bag a signature one in recent years, complete with the bold stripes, industrial tape strap, and yep, your good old binder clip.
Chained To The Rhythm
Yeah, we’re usually used to chain straps for that bit of rock ‘n’ roll edge, but these are a little different; Alexander Wang updates the rockstar Roxy with scores of silver studs and that signature bike chain that you casually loop around your wrist, while Gucci presents a roomy tote, that’s super elegant even when those iconic stripes are trimmed with a gleaming gold hardware buckle. Finally, Stella McCartney’s Falabella Box shoulder bag, in a metallic wicker effect eco alter nappa, on top of the chain sling, sees its flap lined with chains too to amp up the edgy appeal.
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