Sometimes love really does win the day. I say that now because I am so in love with this bag, I honestly don’t even care what fits or won’t fit in it. I’m willing to shed some necessities and then some for this portable work of art.
A distinctly vintage style is obviously apparent (like something a Hitchcock heroine would carry), but Valextra is a master at making a bag exude timeless classicism and modern spirit at the same time. A bag so structured it’s actually a box is nothing new, but the way it opens definitely is: so ingeniously different, the entire front pops open like some elegant clamshell. When it’s closed (and it usually will be), it looks like a true box with no openings, as the top is completely streamlined. Two slide pockets adorn the back, so you don’t have to keep releasing it – which means it remains a mystery to behold.
The high degree of structure and brilliance of design also account for the price. Regardless, this is an emotional buy, not necessarily a rational one, which means no justification is required! Valextra Manzoni bag exclusively at Barneys New York for $3,990.
Pair with: A ladylike-meets-modern bag deserves a ladylike-meets-modern dress. Like Victoria, Victoria Beckham’s clever dress of cotton poplin top and satin-jacquard skirt. On NET-A-PORTER for $975.
