You know the silly cliché that women are attracted to shiny objects? (Can you really blame us, anyway?!) With my eyes glued to Alexander Wang‘s scintillating new “Rafael” bag, I really can’t argue. Mirrored metallic leather in slick silver has the visual intensity of a lightning bolt, though far more soothing. I love the exaggerated zippers – the definitive hardware is a clever play on the heavy-metal tonality. Just lose the rabbit tails, which clutter up an otherwise sleek, sexy number of a bag with unnecessary fluff.
I can almost see my reflection in the high-shine leather, which in keeping with the cosmetic case shape. The configuration is kind of cool as a shoulder bag – the casual style works with the juxtaposition of high-glamour leather. But I’ll be more likely to use the “Rafael” with just the top handle – grasping it like a clutch, for a super-cute day to night transition. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $725.
Pair with: This is just the punctuation an all-black ensemble needs for a look that is neutral with a twist. Maison Martin Margiela is always a thoroughly modern pick – this maxi tank dress, with flashes of fishnet, is a restrained choice to set off unrestrained shine. On Ssense for $486 (from $695).