Handbags With Heart

Handbags can be many things, including whimsical and artistic.  One of the most popular motifs in ladies fashion includes hearts.  They can represent femininity, love, romance, and a girlish optimism.

Take, for example, this Marc Jacobs Big Hearts Clutch:  a veritable elementary school art project in purple leather, inspired by the season’s hottest color. This larger than average clutch (11″x 6.5″x 2.5″) refuses to take itself seriously; and no one who carries this bag will be accused of such a thing, either.  Whether you love it or hate it, this bag is going to get a reaction.  Marc Jacobs has gained a reputation (good and bad) for the whimsical elements he often brings to his designs.  Traditional fashionistas may not appreciate his efforts, but the younger crowd is always looking for a way to stand out--and Jacobs’ bags are far from conventional.

Critics of this particular piece have said that it looks childish, or that it is impractical, but isn’t that the prerogative of high fashion?  There really is no end to structured black handbags or Louis Vuitton bowlers in the world.  For individuals who are more interested in fashion as art than as a status symbol, Jacobs’ designs will always strike a chord.  Victoria Beckham, one of the world’s most fashionable humans was seen this year wearing another Marc Jacobs creation, also featuring hearts:  the Heart Leaf Pinafore Dress.  If it’s good enough for Posh, its’ good enough for me!

Other features of the bag include the polished gold-toned hardware, which sets off the varied purple leathers beautifully; heart appliqués covering the entire bag (front and back), the Marc Jacobs logo embossed on the front in gold letters, a fine textile lining, zip top closure with metal pull, an interior pocket, and a price tag of $795.  Pricey?  Yes.  Frivolous?  Possibly.  Fashionable?  Definitely!

Another bag with heart is the Gucci “Joy” tattoo heart Boston bag.  White leather with red leather trim, and a tattoo inspired heart design, this bag is sexy and fun—perfect for cruise wear or club wear.  The bag appeals to even those not traditionally interested in Gucci designs because it embraces popular culture in a way that no other haute designer has done before.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about Gucci’s heart bag is that it actually does have “heart”.  Twenty-five percent of the proceeds from the sale of this bag (and other pieces in this line) will go to support the global non-profit organization UNICEF which benefits children in Malawi and Mozambique by providing them with health care, shelter, clean water, and education.  The campaign is being represented by the international pop star Rhianna, bringing a fresh, hip face to the traditionally stoic fashion that Gucci is known for.

Sure, hearts may not be for everyone.  They are welcome, instead, to buy their traditional Burberrys or their predictable Chanels.  For those of us interested in getting a second look (and even making the world a better place) they may just be among this season’s must-haves.