Update: Angelina Jolie in Akris Ai Tote Bag

We first wrote about Akris’ debut bag collection back in February, where it was noted that the Swiss brand’s rich heritage and attention to detail had parlayed itself from ready-to-wear into a discerning accessories business. Look who’s become the brand’s newest celebrity ambassador: Angelina Jolie. Mrs. Brad Pitt was snapped by paparazzi over the weekend in Venice, Italy sporting Akris’ signature Ai tote bag while taking Shiloh, Zahara and Pax to a playground. What’s interesting to note, however, is that before debuting her new bag (and, by default, lending her endorsement of it), Jolie’s stylist called the luxury brand to ask designer Albert Kriemler about the animals’ treatment in making the ecru horsehair carryall (it features an intricate woven Mongolian horsehair façade). As I first wrote, the horses simply get a haircut; when told this, Jolie felt comfortable enough to bring it out. While I wouldn’t necessarily say the tote is “kid-friendly,” it certainly is accommodating of all their essential gear. In other words, this bag can hold a lot and still maintain its shape and look chic. What’s more, the particular white/creamy color combination Jolie chose offsets her all-black ensemble stunningly. At close to $5,000, it’s clearly a bag for the most discerning, not to mention deep-pocketed, of women–one who, dare I say, although appreciates its quality, isn’t necessarily currently in the Hermès Birkin camp?

$3,990-$4,400 available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Akris boutiques