The first metallic bag I remember falling for is the Fendi Spy bag in holographic Fortuny bronze leather. I first spotted the iconic bag on Emily’s character as she was hit by a taxi in the Devil Wears Prada back in 2006. If you haven’t noticed by now, that movie truly played an integral part of my life during my formative years, but I digress. From that moment on, I was smitten with the Fortuny Spy. I have vivid memories of spotting the bag on the arm of Mary Kate Olsen, which sealed the deal for the Fortuny Spy as not just the object of my affection, but a must-have bag for me. The Fortuny Spy has had a constant spot on my Holy Grail list ever since, but has still not made its way into my wardrobe just yet. Why not you ask? Well, I must confess something that as a bag lover I’m a bit ashamed of…you see, I am totally on the fence with metallic bags. In my 15+ years of bag collecting, I have never purchased a single metallic handbag.
[sc_ic_ad1]With a collection as robust as mine, it is pretty shocking that I have never had a metallic handbag in the mix. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I have an extreme aversion to metallic bags, in fact, I often find myself admiring them (hi, Fortuny Spy!). Metallic bags are bold and eye catching, two traits I happen to like in my bags. I’m no stranger to my bag acting as the star of my outfit, I’m not married to neutral styles, and I often favor daring bags. I love mixing metals in my jewelry, my wedding ring set is a mix of rose gold and white gold, much to my jeweler’s not so subtle horror. I own numerous metallic sandals that I joyously pulled out of their winter storage bin last week, ready and waiting to be worn all summer long. I’m constantly admiring the look of metallic bags on others, appreciating the elevated statement they contribute to someone’s look. I’ve been stalking #metallicbag on Instagram. So why am I hesitating to add a metallic bag to my own collection? It’s tough to pinpoint the exact reason, but I think I am scared of looking like I’m wearing aluminum foil, which I know is so silly. It’s an irrational fear that I haven’t been able to get over, despite admiring metallic bags on others season after season.
I am thinking it’s time to confront my silly fear and I am seriously contemplating picking up a metallic bag for summer. There is truly no better season for a good metallic bag than sweet summer. Whether you’re feeling a smaller metallic bag or something a bit larger, I have picked out my favorites below. I am already envisioning myself on a sunny patio, drinking rosé while wearing a bright sundress, flatforms, and a metallic crossbody.
What’s your take on metallic bags? Love them or leave them?
Gucci Mini Quilted Metallic Crossbody ($1,200)
Eric Javits Aura Woven Shopper ($525)
Salvatore Ferragamo Thalia Small Shoulder Bag ($1,250)
Miu Miu Lady Matelassé Tote ($2,350)
Tory Burch Fleming Metallic Belt Bag ($278)
Proenza Schouler PS1+ Medium Metallic Paper Leather Satchel Bag ($1,995)
Chloé Faye Day Mini Metallic Satchel Bag ($1,590)
Coach Rogue 25 ($695)
The Ferragamo is gorgeous.
At first glance I thought the Gucci spelled “GOOD.”
Love it! I used to own the Fortuny Spy back in the day… amazing collector’s piece now. I also love shiny things…. my first high end designer was a Balenciaga pewter first. Still love it!
It’s certainly not LOVE for me, but they can for sure be a fun pop of something unexpected to almost any outfit, depending on style! 🙂 I say Yes!
I like metallic shoes and bags but the finish wears quickly. I don’t spend a lot on them.
I have two. A gunmetal gray Gucci Disco bag that I adore and a gold Coach clutch I use for parties and formal occasions. Maybe start small like a clutch of a small bag and pick a color that doesn’t scream aluminum foil to you.
Gilded garb has always invoked elder chic, in particular coastal. It’s by virtue of its shiny-ness blatantly broadcasting bling as style statement, the antithesis of any semblance of understatement via subtlety or at least insider recognition of something less than grossly obvious, which to my mind can only lead to a conclusion of TTH.
Now, like the Met, it’s embraced as camp, aka costuming, which while fun, still doesn’t help it in its everyday application, all ultra mega coolness of Alessandro aside.
But like all fashion statements, to each his/her own. It’s our expression, our suit of armor, our fun. Just so the kids aren’t left shoeless in the process….
Got it! It’s not your preference!
Haha!!
There’s a fortuny spy bag for sale on fashionphile rn for $375.
I’m feeling the Eric Javitz woven shopper bag. I think that one has a cool gold summer vibe. And the price is calling me.
If you aren’t “in love” with metallics what would be the reason to purchase a metallic bag? Simply because you don’t have one for me is not a reason to purchase. There are so many bags that I love, but I would have to be a multimillionaire to purchase all of them. Therefore, I’m very selective re: my purchases, but you buy what makes you happy. 🙂
I have a gold metallic Coach cardholder/key chain where I keep my cash. I LOVE that little thing, it has gotten softer with age and I can always find it in my bag.
I had a platinum colored MK bag, it was indestructible. Even after many years of use, the metallic paint looked great.