Bulgari x Matthew Williamson Bag Launch Party

One of Milan Fashion Week’s most highly-anticipated events took place Sunday night at the Bulgari Hotel, when Bulgari unveiled its Spring 2011 capsule collection of handbags designed by Matthew Williamson in a lush garden transformed into a kaledioscopic-fairy tale-jungle. “I wanted to create a particular kaleidoscope drawn from the rich Bulgari heritage in fine jewelry whilst also attaining a modern, contemporary feel,” said Williamson.

Bold, geometric lines, kaleidoscope prints, maxi jeweled details and intense colors lend an instant “tropical urban” essence to the line, which is entirely made in Florence, Italy. While uniquely Williamson both in terms of colors (emerald green, blue sapphire and rubellite pink) and relaxed aesthetic, they shapes follow a conservative approach to handbag design–but with a twist. The calfskin hobo bags feature braided leather handles while the calfskin clutches, with their jeweled closures, come in two sizes along with matching wallets. The hexagonal motif that’s inherent to the bags is meant to echo, according to Bulgari, “the dynamic heartbeat and architectural geometry of the modern metropolis.” The oversize jeweled closure, finished in light gold, palladium or ruthenium and set against the nuanced surface of the leather, reproduces the form of a diamond and shines brilliantly. A simple chain, inspired by the serpentine forms that often recur throughout Bulgari’s collections, is the distinguishing feature of the shoulder strap clutch. Inside the bags are matching linings that come in three kaleidoscope prints: emerald palm, sapphire galaxy and crystal butterfly.

The city totes are designed to be durable and versatile. Note that this time around the bags feature the same rich patent leather tones but also the aforementioned kaleidoscope prints on the exterior. Last, but not least, is a small line of vintage-inspired minaudières that pay homage to the precious evening bags produced by Bulgari in the early 1950s. The hexagonal pieces are wrapped in fine silk printed with the three bespoke kaleidoscope patterns and graced by a snake chain shoulder strap.

The prices range from $550 for wallets to $2,200 for the hobo bag, available at Bulgari stores starting from January 2011.