Versace knows how to design an It bag that exemplifies its hyper-glamorous identity
When it comes to creating an It bag, Versace knows exactly how to design one that exemplifies its hyper-glamorous identity, discovers Cheryl Chan
There’s no question that fashion and pop culture share a deeply symbiotic relationship, and there hasn’t been any other brand that has successfully permeated the consciousness of the mainstream public and get namechecked as much as Versace has. The curiosity and obsession that gravitates around Versace spiked in the 1990s, as founder Gianni Versace created a cult of personality with his ostentatious and outrageous lifestyle, as well as his intimate relationships with the era’s supermodels. Since then, it has become a pop culture reference, from Migos’ rap song Versace to Bruno Mars’ love anthem Versace on the Floor. TV producer Ryan Murphy even based the second season of his true crime anthology series American Crime Story on the assassination of Gianni. Versace projected this hyper-glamorous dynasty that you could ultimately be a part of, if you just purchased its products. This isn’t the brand you go to for minimal design and subtle nods to craftsmanship. With its bold, ostentatious and in-your-face sexiness, it commands your attention through wild prints, specifically ones that draw back to Gianni’s love for baroque statuary and mythological imagery. Unlike its competitors that are recognised for their signature accessories, Versace’s strength typically lies in its ready-to-wear that is a lavish canvas for its opulent glamour. This season, however, Versace has shaken things up with its eye-catching bags, of which one is aptly named Icon. It’s a supple leather bag, instantly recognisable for the signature gold medusa medallion lock closures that act as the main focal point of the bag. While past options came with a leather top handle, new versions are adorned with a gold shoulder chain crafted with the Greek Key motif in gold alloy originally designed by Gianni. These reissued iterations are even embossed with an inside label with the original year Gianni created them. But of course, the unique factor that endows the bag with its very own Versace spin is the bold baroque print itself, which is experiencing a resurgence this year. Why not go all out and grab a matching silk shirt while you’re at it? After all, if there’s a time to go big, what better way to do it than with Versace?