MODERN BAG ICONS

BOTTEGA VENETA’S PADDED CASSETTE

How it became an icon? Only joining Bottega Veneta in 2018, creative director Daniel Lee has delivered cult bag after cult bag in a very short space of time, and the ‘Cassette’ is his latest offering. Featuring a soft bubble silhouette, this bag builds upon the brand’s iconic Intreccio woven-leather technique turning it into something utterly cool and covetable.

The 2021 Update: Break out from traditional hues and go for lilac one of spring’s favourite colourways.

LOEWE’S PUZZLE BAG

How it became an icon? The Loewe Puzzle Bag was the first new bag designed by Northern Irish designer Jonathan Anderson for Loewe. It’s cool ergonomic, origami-style shape, made it a cult buy from day one. With the addition of different straps, the Puzzle can be worn in five different ways, making it one of the most versatile designer bags around.

The 2021 Update: Choose from this season’s elegant, artisanal colourways that will last from 2021 and beyond.

BALENCIAGA’S HOURGLASS

How it became an icon? Balenciaga's 'Hourglass' only appeared on the scene in 2019 but it very quickly became an icon due to designer Demna Gvasalia’s clever take on the shape and style. The bag signalled a change of direction for the brand by working a cool curved base that mimics that of an hourglass and the label's sculptural blazers, it presented a style which offered a wide appeal becoming a favourite with Hayley Bieber and the street-style set alike.

The 2021 Update: Brighten up your world with a springy white or pink snakeskin Hourglass bag from Balenciaga.

SAINT LAURENT’S LOU LOU

How it became an icon? The Lou Lou is one of the most coveted and most timeless Saint Laurent bags. Named after Yves Saint Laurent’s long-time muse Lou Lou de la Falaise, the bag was designed under Anthony Vaccarello and is actually a relatively new addition to the brand as it released as recently as 2017 but has very quickly become a modern day icon.

The 2021 Update: While the classic black Lou Lou will always be a favourite, why not try in a high impact red for the season ahead?

MULBERRY’S ALEXA BAG

How it became an icon? First launched a decade ago, the iconic satchel-style bag was inspired by Alexa Chung’s carefree confidence – and soon became the handbag to be seen with. Now, 10 years on, and in celebration of the British brand's 50th anniversary, Mulberry has relaunched the handbag, but with a few key updates in terms of size and colour but most notably it’s been created using leather from environmentally accredited tanneries and has been crafted at the brand’s carbon-neutral UK factory.

The 2021 Update: Make a statement and choose an acid bright hue from the new collection.

MARC JACOB’S SNAPSHOT

How it became an icon? The Marc Jacob’s Snapshot bag was an instant hit when it debuted in autumn 2016 because of its compact rectangular shaped style and Instagram-worthy combination of colours. It ticked all the Marc Jacob's boxes being small, sporty, and exuberant at the same time and continues to be a winner for everyday.

The 2021 Update: Soft corals, pinks and ombre hues are the order of the day.

GIVENCHY’S ANTIGONA

How it became an icon? Created by the artistic director Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy the Antigona is a bowling bag which has captured the fashion world’s imagination with its clean lines, simplicity and the right amount of edge that befits Givenchy.

The 2021 Update: Look out for the Baby Antigona Crossbody in shimmering silver and rose gold.

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Talking of icons why not find out about how François’ mother Claudette inspired his makeup career and his new limited-edition collection in Why François Nars Mother is his Muse?