The hardware on this bag reminds of the supremely pricy new Hublot LaFerrari watch, which I don’t even understand because it’s not even nice – it just looks like part of a car engine. But on a Proenza Schouler bag? That’s something entirely different. Here, you get the juxtaposition of an unglamorously functional-looking engine-part closure against sleek leather…and this contrast is completely understandable.
The swiftly curved panels induct an Art Deco feel, with a touch of Speed Racer chic, particularly in the clean black-and-white version (while the black-and-red misses the mark). Topped with a thick strap at the shoulder – which is ever-so slightly reminiscent of a seatbelt, in a really chic way – the Journal simultaneously makes for edge and comfort. Is it any wonder cool girls love Proenza?
On Luisa via Roma for $1,575.
Pair with: When your black-and-white trousers, a la Tibi, come with a print of super-thin stripes, you won’t look like you’ve gone crazy for neutrals. You’ll just look smartly monochrome.
On Net-a-Porter for $350.