I attempted to start this write-up with a statement about how the Saint Laurent Niki is one of the brand’s newer additions until I realized that it’s not 2020 anymore, and the bag is no longer in its infancy.
Launched in 2018, the Niki Bag immediately made waves when it launched for the Spring 2018 season in an ad campaign fronted by the legendary Kate Moss. Whether or not Kate’s appearance alongside the bag had anything to do with its subsequent popularity remains to be seen.
Nonetheless, it’s remained both a brand staple and a fan favorite ever since, often spotted in the arms of fashion-loving celebrities and in our Bags in the Wild series on handbag lovers like you and me.
Everyday Appeal Meets Downtown Cool
Conceptualized under the creative direction of Anthony Vaccarello, the Niki is the epitome of effortlessly cool. It’s truly a perfect representation of the Saint Laurent girl, oozing the quintessential rock ‘n roll vibe that is at the core of Saint Laurent’s DNA.
Relaxed but not messy, it offers a lived-in feel, perfect for grabbing and going with its multiple carrying methods and functional interior (no matter what size you opt for). Though it was first launched in shiny chevron leather, there’s a new version of the Niki in town, and I am obsessed.
The chevron pattern is integral to the House but now covered in soft-grained calfskin, this new version of the Niki bag offers the same easy feel with a slightly more elevated finish. It still feels lived in, which is truly what defines the shape, and the grained leather lends itself to the relaxed nature of the Niki.
Of course, the bag is defined by the YSL hardware, which is not tonal like the original. Instead, it acts as an accent in gold or silver. While the YSL Cassandre logo seems to be a bit divisive, it’s a logo I love thanks to its rich history and ode to the House’s founder.
The Niki bag is one of those bags that remains on my want list, and the latest version is bringing it up a few places.
I have a medium black Niki and it’s so easy and comfortable to carry, in addition to looking stylish. It’s one of my favorite bags.
Zara bag with a big shiny logo… lacks total style and personality.
I don’t like that bag at all. Looks cheap. The logo is just glued on… kinda boring and overdone.
I am a very picky buyer and a nightmare for any shop assistant.
I bought from a new collection June 2024 calfskin new YSL medium Niki in a full price.
I have 30 days to return it – I am not rich – but I decided to keep it.
Before the purchase I did diligent check on quality of the leather and craftsmanship.
Since on the market from 2018 I watched reviews of the original Niki bag for the durability.
For all those comments : “Zara bag, looks cheap” etc – sorry ladies but you don’t know what you are talking about. I agree that the price could be lower but no way that can be comparable to brands like Zara or any from that level.
Life is too short, make yourself happy.
I like this in the brown but boy have these bags gone up in price. $3550 is pretty steep for this.
I love niki bag.