A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a rather critical review of the Derek Lam Elsa Python Clutch with which not everyone agreed. And that’s fine; opinions are like…well, nevermind what they’re like! But there’s no bag upon which everyone will agree, and that’s just the nature of the beast.
But I thought it would be an interesting exercise in criticism to find a bag that does right what that clutch does so wrong: asymmetry. And I didn’t have to look for long, because the Alexander McQueen Faithful Leather Tote is full of non-symmetrical goodness that I can definitely appreciate. This tote works better because it appears as though all the details – flaps, zippers, snaps – could serve some sort of functional purpose as well as working as a design element. The trick is to make a bag whose design springs out of the essential elements of a usable bag, and McQueen does a fantastic job of that with this tote. Everything has a purpose, and there’s no random stuff stuck on just to be cute. I’m not an enormous fan of the bag’s squarish shape, but the other elements are done very well, so I can overlook it. Can you? Buy through Net-a-Porter for $2295.
This bag is HOT!
I agree again!
It’s a great looking bag, although (like you), I would prefer a rounder shape and also, personally, a long strap.
A great bag!
That’s a great bag! Fun but also useful.
usually i go for this aesthetic, but there’s a bit too much going on here!
http://www.bagpoor.com
I think I could easily be faithful (har har) to this bag! The only imperfection I can see is that I wish the handles had a wider placement than they currently do, which could explain why the shape seems a bit odd right now. It’s a rather delicious bag though!
http://highmaintenancewoman.blogspot.com
Just saw this at saks with his nuckle clutch… all i have to say is McQueen= genius love the new rocker studded kick ass stuff the designers are coming out with. I do feel like I have seen this shape of bag alot but the execution and details are great!
Reminds me strongly of a horribly ugly patchwork/zippered denim coat I had in the late 80s. Can the bringing back of the 80s thing just die, already? It. was. not. a. good. time. for. fashion!
Yes but it does not have a straps/handles/zippers/tassels in a different colour and material than the actualy body of the bag so it can not be compared to the derek lam as asymmetry done well. Im a huge McQ fan but this bag doesnt do it for me at all. Many other designers have done the zips and asymmetry better.
Brilliant!
Classic shape, edgy design elements AND I’m sure luscious leather. Love the strap details….AND if you look closely – I’m sure there is plenty of room to have a professional punch more holes for a longer strap length. Hmmmm – wonder if this converts to a tote as well???