I’d like to begin by saying that I generally try to make an effort to appreciate innovation, even when it might lack in functionality. If no one attempts innovation in the first place, then we never have any new concepts for designers to eventually incorporate into bags that we can use in our everyday lives. Which is why I like the Miu Miu Basket Tote, at least in theory, if not in practice.
I think the uses for this bag, as it is, are fairly low. It would be an awfully chic grocery tote, should you need to run around the corner to grab a few things to make dinner. It might also make a decent pool tote, if you folded up your towel in the bottom to prevent your iPod headphones from dangling out. Miu Miu usually errs on the safe side with their bags so its nice to see them do something a bit different, but they fall short on practicality here. This bag would have been both innovative and functional if they had included some sort of soft leather lining inside – maybe in a cream or light grey, for maximum contrast. I would have left the lining loose instead of sticking it to the frame throughout the bag, which would leave the cage effect intact. That way, not only is the idea intact, but the bag is highly usable too. Miu Miu is halfway there, and I kind of like the idea so far. Buy through Bluefly for $660.
