Peter Dundas is a seriously underappreciated talent. This former designer at Roberto Cavalli and Ungaro–now creative director of Emilio Pucci–has never let his passion for cutting-edge design be marred by trends or corporate restraint. The same can be said for the Marquise bag, his first bag (not to mention the only one launched with a name). While it was first introduced for resort, I think it’s a fabulous bag for year-round use. It just reeks of seduction and aristo-rebel attitude but is elegant enough for dinner at Mr. Chow or Kaviar Kaspia. When Peter first showed this bag to me over coffee at the Mercer Hotel, he explained that it was named in homage to the Palazzo Pucci, infusing the luxe Florentine house with some indie rock n’ roll spirit that only he could provide (I was just thrilled that nary was a colored swirl in sight!). Available in two sizes to suit all statures, the classic box shape is wrapped in black suede while a fully-lined canvas interior keeps the bag as light as can be. Sure, naysayers will note its similarity in style to Chanel or Lanvin bags, but check out those killer silver ring piercings that edge the entire bag! Break out the Balmain or Alaïa mini! The chain shoulder straps are great, too–perfect to wear as a normal handbag or across your body for a girl’s night out. For the quintessential–not to mention updated–Pucci girl, this bag is right on target.
Small ($1,435) & large ($1,595) available at Pucci stores, Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus.