Yves Saint Laurent Soft Ponyskin Top-Handle Cabas: What a Difference a Print Makes

Is it the cold weather that makes pony hair so comforting this time of year? Whatever it is, something is in the air because I can’t get enough of the softly lush stuff. Just when you thought the Cabas was inevitably inching its way towards ubiquity, Yves Saint Laurent whipped it up in a delicious skin with an irresistible print.

I still love the classic Cabas, but after seeing so many, both on the shelves of my favorite stores and the arms of knowledgeable celebrities, it was starting to feel bland. But now that the structured satchel is in a cheeky animal print? What a difference some leopard makes – it’s almost a totally different bag! Leopard print is always a smokin’ choice for an accessory, but it’s especially fitting during this decorative season, when excess is most desirable. (And these are controlled spots; black leather gussets ground the wildness.) Don’t be afraid to pull out all the stops when it comes to your Cabas – Yves Saint Laurent certainly isn’t. On Luisa Via Roma for $3,624.

Pair with: Show how nonchalant you are by giving snazzy bag a casual tinge, with Balmain’s buckled and laced-up flat biker boots, now on sale for half-off. Balmain Astra Biker Boot, $938 (from $1,875).