I recently got into a conversation with someone about handbags (shocker). The question of a favorite bag came into the mix and without really thinking, I blurted out an answer before dialing it back and changing my response.
My favorite bag, at least since I got it almost two years ago now, has been and remains to be my perfect Prada Cleo Bag. I had the bag on my lap at the very moment the question was asked—a testament as to why it has become the chosen lady in my life—I use it ALL the time.
Undeniably Chic, Sneakily Cool
Every once in a while, a bag comes along and takes you by surprise, and that’s exactly what the Prada Cleo has done (and continues to do) for me. I lusted after the bag for a long time before making it mine. Truthfully, I always loved it, but I did not see it being a bag that I would (or could) use daily.
Not only did I get the bag in white, but its slim size and sleek appeal lent more towards a bag to use at night or with more elevated outfits. Wrong. The Prada Cleo quickly became my go-to, and while other bags cycle in and out of my rotation, my Prada Cleo is always within reach.
The simple, slim shape goes with everything, from relaxed trousers paired with sneakers to dresses with a kitten heel and jeans. Beloved for its simplicity and versatility, it’s, without a doubt, the bag that I use the most.
Of course, its neutral bright white hue helps too, which, speaking of, has held up surprisingly well thanks to the bag’s Spazzolato leather. I’ve noticed a mark or two but it usually wipes right off, so if you’re afraid of how white will hold up—shiny Spazzoltato is a good choice.
So often, we talk about the bags we want and are lusting over instead of appreciating the ones we have. While the Prada Cleo might not be the perfect grab-and-go bag for everyone, it’s the perfect bag for me, my style, and my needs.
Take away the Prada triangle logo and it’s a TJMAXX clearance bin bag. The leather is ultra processed. The hardware is basic. The shape is unimaginative (though I don’t mind it per se). Prada has highly deceptive manufacturing practices. I will never understand the adoration for this particular bag.
Well – I ADORE the shape of Cleo, but will probably never be able to afford one. So I have therefor shamelessly searched high and low for cheaper bags with this exact shape. I have not found any other, let alone cheaper, bag in this exact and oh so perfect shape. Please let me know where these bin bags of yours can be located
Agree texture of Prada is like Michael Kors but at 10x the price
It’s because it’s the exact same process. Once this “saffiano” effect is rendered, you can’t actually see the real grain of the leather. What you see is printed by a machine.