Rochas Giallo Tote Bag, $1065. Rochas Borsa R18 Sporco Bag, $1695. Both via Saks.
Despite the fact that I have chosen maximalism as my overarching aesthetic theme, I have a healthy respect for those who do minimal and do it well. During the days of Olivier Theyskens, Rochas was never accused of embracing minimalism, but now that the brand’s creative vision has changed hands, the brand’s most widely available foray into handbags yet has lines so straight that my back aches just looking at them. Would you carry something like the Rochas Giallo Tote Bag (left) or the Rochas Borsa R18 Sporco Bag, or do you want your bags to be a little bit more detailed?
Personally, I’d be all over the bright yellow tote. Minimal designs work so well in bright colors because they let the color shine as the principle detail, instead of having neon yellow compete with pockets, zippers, ruching and hardware for the spotlight. The reverse works, as well: Neons and brights bring out the clean, restrained lines that are so important in a minimal aesthetic.
The white bag, on the other hand, I could do without. Although white is one of the most important colors in minimalism, the combination of white with the traditional shape and the subtly scolloped edge of the top flap create a look that’s a little bit too ladylike for my personal style. I do, however, adore the contrasting snake-print top handle. So what do you say, ladies? Would you be first in line to carry either of these bags? Buy through Saks for $1065 and $1695, respectively.
