Givenchy Pepe Messenger Bag: Cool Down and Crinkle Up

Whether it’s the Pepe or the Obsedia, Givenchy knows how to turn up the heat on the everyday messenger. While the Obsedia has rich pebbled leather, the crinkle-effect Pepe makes for a truly unexpected texture. In smoky blue, deep and muted at the same time, it’s a treasured find. The bag has a wavy, almost oceanic quality. And then there’s that standout hardware: so not subtle in such a good way, Givenchy’s trademark bar-and-pull-ring (this time in silver) is a bold detail you’re eager to show off. Let’s be honest: it’s damn cool.

With a lot going on (by other designers, this could easily look cheap or overdone), they’ve knowingly kept the shape classic and easy to wear. With an adjustable shoulder strap that elongates to messenger length, this is a functional bag full of details that pulsate. If you’re like me and dress casually for most days, this is the perfect way to inject some fierceness without putting in effort. On Ssense for $1,730.

Pair with: You’ll want breezy, undone chic for day. By Malene Birger’s Kasila skirt, a heather-gray, wool-jersey maxi with fluid, flared movement (thanks to a mild fishtail) evokes the same sense of no-fuss cool. On Net-a-Porter for $295.