The notion of the handbag as an object of desire remains unwavering, even if fashion experts maintain that the age of conspicuous consumption is over.
But what is it about a bag? Perhaps it is its inherent practicality, or perhaps it is because we are carrying around a little piece of ourselves, but when it comes to this particular accessory, we instinctively look to beautifully crafted design.
The marriage between form and function is one explored by the Riyadh-based Princess Reema Bandar Al Saud, the creative director of Baraboux, who unveiled her fourth collection of bags in Paris last month.
The collection was inspired by the depth of colour seen in seasonal flowers – anemones, hydrangeas, chrysanthemums and roses – favoured by the visionary Parisian florist Rambert Rigaud, a former studio director in the ateliers of Yves Saint Laurent and Dior Haute Couture.
Made from the softest luxurious leathers and exotic skins, the light touches of decadence now synonymous with the Baraboux brand were exploited, in subtle references such as “the evil eye” on stingray cuffs. The palette included a delightful mix of serene pastels – subtle coral and antique rose shades – offset by a deep, moody olive. A standout piece was the Reema clutch (pictured), which was revisited in this season’s signature reptile and snakeskin.
What Al Saud has achieved with this collection is an artful blending of the avant-garde and the traditional, with each meticulously created piece reminding us that the true essence of craftsmanship is very much alive.
ktrotter@thenational.ae
