Whilst left brain practicality may tell you that a bag for the evening can be one that also works during the day, the creative right brain may disagree. Something compact, dainty, embellished and a true statement may be what your outfit is singing out for, especially if it’s comparatively understated. Just as their gowns are never less than beautifully ornate, Marchesa’s collection of handbags are not the kind you’d select in the hope of them crossing over to every day. Fall 2012′s offerings take shape in rectangular bags on delicate cross-body chains, or in embellished clutches, their clasps geological chunks of cut quartz. The details are many and varied, but always impressive: everything from luxurious reptile leather to beads or pearls that give the impression of some underwater treasure; filligree patterns and three-dimensional applique flowers, crystals, gems and baroque embroidery.
The thing to remember with pieces like these is that, even when overwrought with detail, it works because the quality is of a high standard. It’s hard for high street versions to compare, so compromising on the cost means being willing to compromise on some of the detail and go for something a little simpler.
View the full set of Marchesa fall 2012 handbags at the gallery above.
