A bag in the hand
Move over, Gucci, there’s a new fashion obsession in town, and its initials are BV. Indeed, Bottega Veneta is the fashion brand on everyone’s lips, thanks to creative director Daniel Lee’s Céline training and meteoric rise since joining the historic Italian house in 2018. His minimalist-luxe esthetic is perhaps best epitomized by The Pouch, a bag that’s kicked off a trend for pared-down styles that ooze quality, class and sophistication. Rebecca Tay explores five of the best pouch clutches right now.
RED ALERT
If you gravitate toward statement bags and plenty of colour, or if you prefer to leave leather out of your wardrobe, consider this Lucy vegan leather tote by A.W.A.K.E. Mode. Sure, it’s not technically a clutch, but we think its unique, blown-out proportions land it firmly within the same region as Bottega’s version. Bonus points for the fact that it could multi-task as a pillow on a long bus or plane ride. Farfetch, farfetch.com | $300
IN KNOTS
Wedding season is just around the corner, and we can confidently say that this Ronnie leather bag by Staud is the perfect style for every occasion in your spring-summer calendar. Its dainty size and shape means it won’t ever overpower a dress, while its pretty washed-out rose hue also brings a touch of femininity to a basic jeans ensemble. Holt Renfrew, holtrenfrew.com | $510
BLACK BEAUTY
You can’t go wrong with a black bag; nor can you have too many, especially when they’re as gorgeous as this Flamenco clutch by Madrid-based brand Loewe. One of the brand’s original styles, it comes in larger sizes, too, but we’re partial to this version. There’s also a handy shoulder strap if you desperately need to go hands-free. Loewe, loewe.com | $2,990
SEEING DOUBLE
If you still prefer getting your fashion fix at a fast-fashion chain, or simply don’t have a cool three grand to spare on a bag, and we don’t blame you if that’s the case, you might like this leather double-pouch clutch from Zara. It’s essentially two bags in one, making it easy to switch up your look whether you’re packing for a trip and want plenty of outfits for the ’Gram (without too much extra baggage) or just can’t decide which hue you like better. Just keep it and wear it for years to come. Zara, zara.com | $129
LEADER OF THE PACK
Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch is as simple and compelling as it sounds: its classic, slightly triangular shape is nothing new, but it’s the slightly puffed out proportions, not to mention the brand’s reputation for using some of the most buttery leathers in the business, that give this bag its standout quality. It comes in a variety of colours and leather treatments, but we especially love it in this sky blue calfskin. SSENSE, ssense.com | $2,890