Yes Icon! Classic Handbag Round-up

Posted By LisaC on Jul 21, 2009 at 11:21AM

Just admit it: getting that "it" bag really is the rite of passage for many a many fashion freaks. Don't try to fool yourself by saying you don't want a bag that every one has--you already know that no new-bag-on-the-block could ever put these clamor-worthy classics out of style, and there's a good reason for it. While shiny new styles are exciting, there just isn't that romance classic bags can offer. How many bags can really tell an alluring story, transcending time and trends with its revolutionary design? The list is a short one, to be sure.

 

Chanel Lambskin Classic Flap Bag (2.55)

$2675 by Chanel

True story: a girl dreamed of getting this bag for so long that on the day she saved up enough money to buy it, she hyperventilated before entering the store and nearly teared up when she took that shiny, black shopping bag in her hands. Launched by Coco on February of 1955 (hence the spy-like moniker of 2.55), you can find a little piece of the design darling in every detail: the back pocket is where she kept her tip money, the Bordeaux lining is her favorite color, and of course, the little zippered pocket where she kept her love letters. A bag isn't a bag until you have a romantic story or two to tell--this one definitely has 'em.

 

Louis Vuitton Monogram Speedy 30

$690 by Louis Vuitton

What is it with iconic bags getting "makeovers"? Though this bag recently went through a rather rough reinvention (by an artist who shall remain nameless, at least in this blog), the Speedy has a utilitarian travel bag shape, which makes it perfect for any occasion you can throw at it--whether it be a little getaway or a cocktail party, the monogram will complement any color, fabric, or cut. Since introduced in the 30s, this bag has been later made in various lines and sizes, but the Monogram 30 (a medium one of the 4 sizes) is the daddy of them all. For a lot of people, when you think of a LV bag, you immediately think of this shape--a shape that stood the test of time, and made a luggage company the fashion house it is today (well, helped to anyway).

 

Gucci Jackie Hobo

$2,316.00 by Gucci at Bluefly

Back to the thing about iconic bags getting remade: this is a legend reincarnated. Again. Since its debut in the 1950s, the namesake of course is the former first lady and perhaps the first politic-fashion icon. Ms. Jackie Onassis was spotted toting this on her shoulder, and soon the bag was nicknamed in her honor. The round edge, fringe detail, and the oversized, slouchy shape is still present, but for this season, designer Frida Giannini pushed the size limit even more and added a strap that allows for a good sling action. How is it possible to make an icon better, you ask? Well, just leave it to Gucci.

 

Fendi Spy Bag

$1,493.99 by Fendi at Bluefly

Okay, maybe the most debatable of my picks, the Fendi Spy Bag has had its ups and downs--and it's no surprise, because the very details that make nay-sayers cringe are what makes it so original. The knot detailing on the handles maybe looks messy to some, maybe the weaving is too much. But remember, not all icons are universally loveable (I mean, please tell me that not EVERYONE is in love with Madonna) and just one look at this bag and you will instantly recognize it. Isn't that what it's all about? Besides, all it really needs is a cult following for it to be covet-worthy, and while one blogger may not be enough to make it a cult-hit, it definitely is a start.

 

Hermes Birkin 35

Price varies by style and availability

Ah, the Berkin. There's been songs written about it, and people have probably been murdered for it. It's pretty much virtually impossible to get your hands on one, what with the so-long-its-non-existent waiting list and the gargantuan price tag, possibly worth more than a lot of our lives (take no offense, it's the Birkin). Sure, you can try to find a reputable seller on eBay or get your hands on a reseller at Fashionphile, but can that really compare to walking into a store and dropping this big name? A tip to all icon bags: until you have a book written about you, you haven't really "made it" yet. Maybe one day, honey.

 

5 Comments -- 81 Views
posted by Solo Lisa
Tue, 07/21/2009 - 1:19pm

I have the Chanel 2.55 in the jumbo size and black caviar leather. I wasn't too crazy about the compartments on the standard-size one and it was too small for my needs, but I love love love the one I bought. Smiling It's the perfect marriage of classic elegance and practicality, and I always feel extra special when I carry it.


posted by
Tue, 07/21/2009 - 5:42pm

You are so right, the Chanel 2.55 bag will always be a classic, but if you want it to last long enough to still be a classic in your wardrobe ten years from now, I suggest buying it in the caviar leather version, since it's much more durable and less prone to scratching than the lambskin. Trust me.


posted by
Tue, 07/21/2009 - 6:18pm

Lisa ::
I am so jealous! My dream is the cream jumbo one... I totally stared at myself in the mirror carrying it for about 20 min last time I was there! Ah, I sense a fellow oversized-toter... You carry your whole life around too?

Thoughts On Style ::
Chic like this will never go out of style! But oh no, my sis just got the lambskin (hence my favoritism towards the silky option). I do agree with you though, I'm not as obsessed as my sis when it comes to bag care (my handbags rarely get to take a snooze in their dust bag) so if I were to get it, it would have to be caviar.


posted by aj bambino
Sun, 08/30/2009 - 12:45pm

yeah the lambskin version is more prone to scratches but it is also a more classic option, and i just got the standard 2.55 and hopefully it would last for a while cos it is more like a little purse for me than an every day handbag, but i a alos in love with the metallic gray version of the 2.55 it is so uber cool


posted by Bill Bartmann
Tue, 09/01/2009 - 11:37pm

I'm so glad I found this site...Keep up the good work


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