Tips to take care of your high-end luxury handbag

The luxury bag of your dreams comes with the promise of transcending seasons. But before you know a scratch, a wrinkle or a stain might taint its value. Ahead, we tell you hacks of how to maintain designer handbags to increase their lifespan, of course it cost a fortune in the first place, regardless of the price tag, something with a top spot in your repertoire deserves TLC and the best caring techniques. 

1. Store out of direct light and never hang it


Harsh sunlight, even through the glass can damage the leather and cause discolouration. Hanging it on the chair or handles after a long day might seem obvious, resist the temptation. Experts recommend storing bags in upright position in dust bags, or original boxes in earmarked shelves. Stuff them with acid-free tissue or even soft t-shirts and scarves to save space and maintain the shape over the years.

Also Read: Men’s Spring-Summer 2022: Relaxed masculinity runs riot

2. Caring for leather

Luxury leather is designed to stand the test of time; learning how to clean without ruining it is a life hack which will serve you well. Always ask the brand for detailed instructions on the best way to keep it clean, but basic tips include using a soft, dry cotton cloth to swipe it down.

Refrain from harsh cleaning agents; incase of a spill, dab alcohol-free wipes (alcohol is known to dry out the surface), leave it for a couple of minutes and apply a protection cream for a solid conditioning. Just like you moisturise your skin, leather goods need conditioning to avoid drying out and cracking over time. Focus on cleaning the high-touch areas around the handles, corners and base, remember to buff off any excess. Having the specially designed cleaning and protecting agents for the leather on your bag is an investment you will not regret. 

3. Moisture is the nemesis

Luxury bags are studier but not invincible, especially not to humidity. Moisture is the enemy of leather and Hong Kong has oodles of it. Never discard the silica gel sachets which come with your bag, in fact keep replacing them and add a dehumidifier in the closet to avoid mould and increase longevity. 

Also Read: Best luxury white sneakers for the ultimate casual look

4. Colour transfer

Accidentally wearing a dark coloured dress with a beige bag can cause colour stains. Here prevention is better than cure because when leather comes in contact with wet surfaces, the dye can bleed causing a notorious stain. Be quick to act, patch test with a high grade leather cleanser, immediately stop if the original colour is wearing out. If the stain has not settled, chances are you will be able to take it out; heading to a professional cleaner is the next best solution. 

5. Handbag liner is a solid investment

The best way to maintain pristine insides of your bag is to invest in a liner. Not only will a liner make it feasible to swap bags at the last minute, it helps in organising your essentials and makes for room for extra pockets. 

Also Read: It List: Spring fashion accessories to invest in right now

Loro Piana introduces new bags to its Suitcase Stripe Collection

Tote bags are something of a must-have, a versatile accessory more than deserving of its fair share of precious wardrobe real estate. Originally introduced in the ’40s as a sailing bag, it has since soared to popularity as an indispensable handbag, one that is casual yet sophisticated in equal measure. And this design stands as one of the central features of Italian haute couture label Loro Piana’s latest Suitcase Stripe Collection.

Loro Piana Suitcase Stripe Collection tote

Inspired by the suitcases used by the brand’s sales representatives during the ’70s and ’90s – accentuated by the requisite attention-grabbing stripes, of course – Loro Piana’s Suitcase Stripe Collection Tote Bags are available in a multitude of sizes, colours and materials, be it cotton, linen canvas or luxurious cashmere. All come with a water- and stain-repellent finish to ensure you can wear this statement piece come rain or shine.

Loro Piana Suitcase Stripe Collection bag

Haute Couture Handbags: Make every receptacle a fashion spectacle

           

It’s no secret that well-chosen haute couture handbags can completely transform any outfit from a run-of-the-mill look into true fashion statements. What’s more, the judicious addition of a silky scarf – be it boldly printed or demurely nude-toned – can enhance your image even further. If you’re at a loss on exactly how to pair these high-end accessories, simply check out our carefully curated selection below.

Haute Couture Handbags - 1

Look 1

  1. Scarf by Prada
  2. Mini Chloé bag by Chloé
  3. Aby Lock bag by Chloé
  4. Spider Jewelled satchel bag with Swarovski crystals by Alexander McQueen

Haute Couture Handbags - 2

Look 2

  1. Blue patterned scarf by Moncler
  2. Paris Postal limited-edition bag by Loewe
  3. Jewel-printed scarf by Chopard
  4. Nylon shoulder-bag by Prada
  5. Polka dot scarf by Chopard

Haute Couture Handbags - 3

Look 3

  1. Scarf by Versace
  2. Janelle bag in water-snakeskin by Bally
  3. East / West tri-colour bag by Strathberry
  4. Whip shoulder-bag by Givenchy

Haute Couture Handbags - 4

Look 4

  1. Scarf by Loewe
  2. Ferragamo Boxyz bag by Salvatore Ferragamo
  3. Large Icon handbag by Versace

Haute Couture Handbags - 5

Look 5

  1. Scarf by Hermès
  2. Mini Lindy leather bag by Hermès
  3. Kelly Danse II bag by Hermès

Haute Couture Handbags - 6

Look 6

  1. 30 Montaigne Dior Oblique bag by Dior
  2. Janelle transparent bag by Bally
  3. Scarf by Dior

Photos: Jack Law
Art Direction & Styling: San Wong

 

Holiday handbags

For women who love to travel but are bored of their holiday fashion,  Louis Vuitton will provide some much needed inspiration with its latest campaign.

The french fashion house’s Cruise campaign aims to embody the spirit of travel.

The Cruise campaign features Swedish actress Alicia Vikander, who won an Oscar for her role in the Danish Girl, and was staged in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Vikander was photographed by Patrick Demarchelier holding two new Louis Vuitton handbags, the Twist and Capucines.

The Capucines handbag is so adaptable that you can take it from the boardroom to the beach, while the Twist is a modern classic designed by Nicolas Ghesquière, the creative director of Louis Vuitton.

The photos of Vikander in Rio are meant to portray escapism, which is what everyone wants when they go on holiday.