Valextra Fall 2010 (and Spring Shopping)

Ever wonder what it’s like bag shopping with me and Tina? We went to visit the Valextra showroom in Milan and conveniently, it is directly above their flagship store on Via Manzoni. I have only seen the limited selection at Barney’s (their exclusive retailer in the US) so to see a beautiful (minimalistic but GIANT!) building of nothing but perfect Valextra bags was like heaven on earth. The new bag for Fall is the Caju – a ladylike shape of the 60’s, updated in a larger size and with longer straps for over the shoulder wear. Just what I’ve been dreaming of when I watch Mad Men!! I have been shopping vintage stores for bags like this but I know I would never be able to use it because it does not fit today’s lifestyle. There are ever so subtle and clean hardware “studs” along the frame giving it polish without taking over the luxury of Valextra which is all about its immaculate and clean look – the only thing ostentatious about Valextra is the fact that the quality is so perfect it seems imaginary. The Caju comes in 3 sizes and 3 colors (yellow, navy and maroon).

For some instant gratification, we went down to their store to shop. The prices were also significantly less in Italy, due to lack of duties and exporting fees. How could we possibly not take advantage? We like to be thorough and make sure we see every possible option before we buy, which is kinda our job, right? So we made them take out their entire stock, every bag in every color, no exaggeration (see picture evidence). Trying to narrow it down to one was like trying to decide which of your kids is your favorite.

I wanted the Babila but the shoulder strap was too short, I wanted pristine white but it is too pristine for my reality, I wanted the frame but it was too serious for my style, I wanted the turquoise but I already have too many blue bags. In the end though, I did in fact choose the perfect bag for me, the Namaste large hobo ($1680) in oyster. The large hobo has a gusset which not only gives it more girth but adds an additional detail to the profile. And unlike most hobos, this has a zip closure. There is also a black croc, but Victoria Beckham already has it so I didn’t want to copy her 😉 Tina got the Babila ($2240) in turquoise, the greatest tote ever made, ideal for everyday as well as travel. The turquoise is so exquisite and bright and happy, it will Spring and Summer that much sweeter. She also considered a fuchsia croc shoulder, it was a total Tina bag and the most shockingly flashy Valextra ever made. In the end, two good decisions we will appreciate forever. We also had our initials engraved on them making them ours forever. To borrow from Bottega Veneta’s mantra, “When your own initials are enough”!

Babila in Oyster and Namaste in Prisitne White at Barneys New York online