News feed
Like the old saying goes: when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. So what’s more sweeter than topping off a less than desirable year with a luxury bag purchase? From Bally to Coach to Saint Laurent, the history of each lauded house is distinctly different, albeit they all boast an innate nod to craftsmanship.
For stylist Emma Cotterill, it is the detailed stitching and fine leather construction that sets these pieces apart from high street copies. Just as nature starts from a mere seed or bud and is intricately constructed throughout time, the same can be said for luxury style.
Furla 1927 Opera
While the Furla brand has a prolific standing within the social media sphere – donned on the arm of every It-girl – its Italian heritage was established long before the internet was even conceptualised. In 1927, Aldo Furlanetto founded the company in Bologna where it distributed ladies items via wholesale. Today, the family-owned company boasts 1,600 employees, of which 90 percent are women represented by over 100 nationalities.
The Furla 1927 line of coveted bags is a nod to this storied heritage. The top-handle Opera bag combines classicism with modern glam, while an adjustable strap and large pockets allow for utility.
BALLY VIVA
Born in Switzerland in 1851, Bally has a longstanding DNA in expert leather construction. The Vestige collection featured the Viva bag, a combination of 1851 hardware and a contemporary take on archival designs. Constructed using a geometric patch chevron design, this skilled and labour-intensive technique is the perfect example of Bally craftsmanship.
According to the brand, each leather section is hand-cut and numbered before being stitched into the chevron pattern. The chain strap can be worn as a cross-body or shoulder bag while the clasp is finished with magnets for easy access. The same design sensibilities can be found on the Lizzie leather flats.
Saint Laurent Sac de Jour
The Saint Laurent Sac de Jour is a classic, albeit just seven years old. First launched in 2013 by Hedi Slimane, the name translates to ‘bag of the day’, and for good reason with the likes of Gigi Hadid and Nicole Ritchie often seen clutching the piece. Available in four different sizes and a myriad of colours and textures – like this ultra modern green python iteration – the style is just as practical as it is timeless. Featuring round top handles, a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap.
COACH X BASQUIAT FAMOUS Rogue Bag 39
Jean-Michel Basquiat once famously said, “I don’t think about art when I’m working. I try to think about life.” The African-American artist rose to prominence in the 1980s through his gritty Neo-Espressionitst street art and is perhaps best known for elevating graffiti in the New York gallery scene. This season Coach celebrates the late-artist through a limited-edition collection featuring elements of his iconic artworks.
The Rogue 39 bag – the largest tote of the Rogue family – boasts the iconic ‘famous’ crown with other motifs taken from Basquiat works. Additional detail can be found through the snake skin top handle and swing tag.
COACH X BASQUIAT five Beat shoulder Bag 18
The Coach x Basquiat collection continues with the Beat shoulder bag. The Beat style has become an icon of the Coach offering, inspired by the non-stop energy of New York City. Featuring the same ‘Famous’ motif as the Rogue 39 predecessor, this petite iteration boasts three compartments and multifunctional pockets. Truly made for the New York woman.
furla 1927 mini cross body
Perhaps the most coveted style from the Furla repertoire is its mini cross body bag. This particular style however is the most timeless and in a muted red make a subtle statement for everyday wear. Drawn from the 1927 collection, it features the same branded hardware that doubles as a twist clasp.
Bally Celestine Small
When envisaging the design sensibilities of Bally, lemon yellow does not come to mind. Yet, there is a sudden urge to include this buttery hue of colour in everything I wear, with priority number one being the Celestine small bag. Featuring the signature Cecyle Lock, the leather design doubles as a top-handle tote and crossbody bag. Interior zipped pockets keep everything organised.
Coach City Blocks Triangle Bag
Hailing from New York, Coach has paid homage to its famed heritage with the City Blocks collection. Inspired by the geometric forms of the city skyline, architecture enters leather craftsmanship for interesting shapes and unconventional styles. Utilising the Coach signature turnlock closure and soft leather, the Triangle bag is eye-catching both for its design and attention to detail.
PHOTOGRAPHER – Seung-Rok
STYLIST – Emma Cotterill
STYLIST ASSISTANT – Martea Yan
