As bag trends go, it’s safe to say we’ve seen it all.
Bags have gone from gargantuan to infinitesimal and back again enough times to send anyone into a tizzy. Always one to break away from the pack, Dolce & Gabbana gave their bag game a touch of whimsy in their latest Alta Moda presentation, which they presented among the ancient ruins of Rome.
This is the first year that the designer duo has brought this presentation to the Eternal City, witnessed by their devoted clientele who flew in from all over the world for the sake of fashion. And it was a collection that did not disappoint! Armored corsets, dresses adorned with swathes of velvet and sequined layers traipsed down Via Sacra in the heart of the Roman Forum. Imagine being transported to the bacchanalia of the Roman Empire all in one evening.
In the midst of all the haute couture that walked down the runway, there was one piece that did catch the fashionista’s eagle-eye. A model clad in a cape with painted image of the Fontana di Trevi had in hand a sculptural bag that was a replica of the same famed Roman landmark. The top-handle purse with the fountain on one side, and a wooden case is heavy on the whimsy, but perhaps not so much on the practical. But for the statement-seeking fashion girlie, it might just be the missing piece in their wardrobe.
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In reality, Dolce & Gabbana is not the first designer to come out with bags inspired by architectural landmarks. Australia-based luxury handbag designer Yue Shi has been creating leather bags inspired by the European cathedrals and Japanese temples. He even has one that looks like the Colosseum in Rome! On the local front, there is Zarah Juan, whose retro bags—a boombox, a cassette, and a television—has been seen on the arms of Manila’s most fashionable set.
But here’s the rub with the bag in question: designer or not, this Fontana di Trevi bag is giving major tchotchke vibes. And not the good kind. Here’s our honest take: it may look cool for a nano second, because, chances are, it won’t be long until you find a dupe at the corner souvenir shop right next to the “Viva Roma” magnets. At a tenth of the price, or even less. But hey, if that does nothing to deter you, then go ahead and carry it with aplomb!
It will make for one unique souvenir from your Roman holiday. For sure. But the real question you need to ask yourself is—is this bag ever going out with you on your morning stroll? Thought so.
