Updating History

Iconic archival handbags are receiving a fresh, contemporary lease of life, Manish Mishra notes

- Manish Mishra

Over the last few seasons, luxury brands have dived deep into their rich libraries and reintroduced some of their key archival bags with of-the-moment touches. Be it Dior’s saddle, Tod’s Di bag, Gucci Horse bit 1955 or Ferragamo’s Wanda—all have been reimagined in a contemporary style. With new details and features, of course. The overall philosophy challenges the very construct of seasons–pieces that are timeless do not need to abide by a seasonal calendar. It’s understandable, then, why luxury brands are focused on creating remarkable, singular objects that last forever. As an entry-level product into a brand’s universe and a commercial moneyspinner, handbags are being revived, reimagined and recontextualised. Moreover, it’s a definite effort to bring back former clients who want to relive a specific style.

At Dior, creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri updates the iconic Saddle bag with straps in monochromatic hues, featuring the season’s signature Plan de Paris on calfskin. The emblematic design, steeped in symbolism and savoir-faire, is inspired by House archives and pays an artistic homage to Dior’s historic address on Avenue Montaigne, Paris. The Saddle flap is enhanced by a magnetic D stirrup clasp with tonal leather, as well as an antique gold-finish metal CD signature on either side of the strap.