Swing and a miss Radley’s jubilee bag veers between classic celebration and tourist tat

Radley’s Platinum Jubilee “Picture” bag is a structured leather tote – so far, so classic.

It is thoughtfully designed, with three separate compartments, a zip at the top and a detachable cross-body strap. It has Radley’s signature Scottie dog charm, too.

That is where the familiar ends and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee takes over.

The occasion is represented through a printed illustration that shows Scottie in padded appliqué leather paying a visit to Buckingham Palace. It features Guardsmen in bearskins while a Union Flag balloon floats above them.

The illustration is tastefully done, a lovely homage to the occasion … if only it was not on a handbag.

As a postcard, it would be adorable but here it is reminiscent of tourist items sold at the wrong end of Portobello Market.

It is a shame, because the bag is beautifully made, with handles wrapped in blue, red and white leather. At £289, it is not cheap but that is in keeping with Radley’s prices – there is no Jubilee markup, as other brands might have been tempted to add.

Would I carry it? No, although the people buying Radley’s jubilee bag probably will not use it. It will stay in its dust bag, admired once in a while as its owner looks back on 2022’s highs and lows.

A better buy would be another piece from the collection: a cream zip-top pouch, illustrated like an envelope inviting the Scottie to the palace, more affordable at £109.

I hope those buying it give it use before they pack it away – it’s kitsch in all the right ways. Very tongue-in-chic.