The evolution of a brand is natural and to be expected: a brand and its wares will change with the trends and time. But it has been proven, decade after decade, that what’s old circles back and becomes new again. The revival of many of these older styles reigns supreme with beloved luxury brands right now, and it has been welcomed with opened arms. Prada reissued some of its most classic designs, including the Re-Edition 2000, 2005 and 2006. On top of the revival of those bags, Prada has focused on its new Re-Nylon.
However, a slim and sleek leather bag is what has everyone talking about the Italian fashion house right now and it is a play on a popular Prada shape from the 1990s. Debuted in Prada’s ‘Multiple Views’ show, the Prada Cleo line of accessories also draws inspiration from archival Prada styles and traditional craft techniques as a way to showcase the evolution and reinvention of the brand’s heritage. The streamlined and curved design is made to hug close to the body when carried over the shoulder and works just as well being carried by hand.
There’s a slight sheen to the leather, which pairs perfectly with the modern design. In fact, the Cleo line of bags walks a fine line of classic and futuristic which feels old and new again all at once. Each bag is formed over custom lasts, which helps the bag hold its shape well and the methodology dates back to the beginning of Prada’s inception and expertise with leather accessories. The base of the bag features a curved design, with the back sitting a couple inches lower than the front to give a multi-dimensional appearance, which is juxtaposed with softly sloping sides. There’s an inherent femininity and delicacy to the design which is met with a strong, statement-making construction and shape.
The assortment of Prada Cleo Bags are crafted from spazzolato leather (brushed calfskin) and are quite light. The front of the bag features a small, tonal enamel Prada triangle logo which melds into the design nicely. There are two variations: a top-flap and a top opening (which comes in a larger size as well).
Prada Cleo in White and Cleo with Flap in Aqua
The Prada Cleo Shoulder Bag has a magnetic snap closure, which you could easily leave undone as the structured shape won’t allow for items to fall out. Once inside, you’ll find a leather back pouch open pocket which can fit your phone if it’s not the Max size. The body of the bag is big enough for everyday items and because of the more stiff structure, locating your items inside is quite easy. The leather shoulder strap is thin, but not overly so, and sits nicely on your arm, holding close to your body. The brushed leather is versatile and durable, but also so light it barely feels like you have something on your arm. Dimensions of this bag are 8.7″ H x 2.4″ L x 10.6″ W, which is larger than the top flap option. If you are fond of this bag but wish for it to be larger, there’s an option for you too. The main difference aside from the obvious larger size is you are offered an adjustable shoulder strap.
The other version of this design is the Prada Cleo Shoulder Bag with a Flap, and the main difference is the front flap closure. The rest of the design is very similar to the open top version, with brushed leather, a leather handle, and Prada’s logo nylon lining along with an interior patch pocket. One thing to note is that both of these bags have a fixed drop shoulder strap. Dimensions on this version are a bit different: 6.1″ H x 1.6″ L x 8.7″ W. Colors on both include black, white, aqua and silver and each suits the bag perfectly.
Discover the Prada Cleo on Prada.com
The silver is truly done right! The others however look very, umm, “medical”. Like the Raf Simons collab.
“Medical”..the shoes, the bags? How?
It just looks very sterile to me. Too stern.
I love this bag, a lot.
Its s sad day when the only comments on a blog are by the writers.
That’s what happens when editors prioritise engagement metrics.
My mom had this bag in the 90s and I want this (plus I want to take hers as my own). Love the open top one most!
Oh lawd, this brings back memories! I think safe to say that this bag shape can be considered a classic.
Love these photos!
I have a similar black Prada hobo made in cervo leather and I still use it years down the road. It’s nearly indestructible. I will probably still be using it a decade from now. The glossy black version shown here is attractive, but I doubt it will hold up the way my hobo workhorse (workdeer?) has.
Plus I paid only $450 for my bag compared to $1700 plus for the Cleo hobo-ish shoulder bag AND mine had a more secure zip top closure. IMO, my older version beats this new one hands down. P.S. the article links aren’t working for me (at least, not the ones I tried).
Lighting on the black bags is terrible. Can’t see them.
prada prada prada – the bag looks good but why dont update it a smidge and modernize it – also add a zipper or something extra for security? there should be a crossbody strap because most bag users today want that functionality even if if i was carrying it over my shoulder i prefer it to be longer than shorter
Carrying this over the shoulder looks like it’s in her armpit. I don’t ever find this to be a comfortable fit. Am I the only one?