Vintage Comeback
New designs are always exciting, but Bonia’s revival of its iconic ’90s Venice bag will undoubtedly win the hearts of collectors all over
The time-honoured craft of leather making has defined the legacy of Bonia founder SS Chiang. It all started with him as a young man wandering through the cobbled streets of Bologna, Italy, where he was entranced by the dynamic craftsmanship and timeless refinement of Giambologna’s impressive sculptures. What struck a chord in Chiang’s mind was an echo of the name “Giambologna”, from which three syllables materialised: “BO-NI-A”. Created in 1974, Bonia has since courted an unending love affair with Italy.
Captivating the attention of a whole generation, the Venice bag was first introduced in 1991. Its emblematic golden clasp and treasure chest shape symbolise the eternal bond of love which reflects Italy’s most romantic city—venice.
If there is one thing that Bonia knows how to do, it is to make an impactful brand image on lifestyle and fashion. Their iconic TV commercial which takes place in Venice sees an ensuing romance as a man and woman lock eyes while travelling opposite ways in a canal on two separate gondolas. Perched gracefully on the lady’s hip, Bonia’s Venice bag is difficult to miss and made quite an impact. It was so memorable that if you ask anyone old enough, they’ll tell you the moment when they first saw it.
That was three decades ago, and a revival is long overdue. In conjunction with welcoming a new chapter for Bonia, the
Venice bag will make its return as the centrepiece of its Neu Romantic collection.
Simultaneously looking forward to the future and paying homage to the past, the Neu Romantic collection is an amalgamation of heritage and contemporary design—a chic accompaniment to your everyday look.
The Venice bag, which was released in October, impeccably embodies these ideas in its reimagined design. Featuring a glossy locket in the shape of Bonia’s Neu-b logo and striking leather finish available in varying colours, its timeless retro look will definitely bag your interest and incur fascination in the old as well as the new.