It Bags of yesteryear (L-R) : Fendi Spybag, Dior Saddle Bag, Givenchy Motorcycle Biker Bag
The Murakami. The Motorcycle The Birkin. Since the ‘90s, it seems that every major design house from Chloe to Coach has marketed a signature “It Bag” at one time or another. And although it’s true that luxury accessories always attract trend-hungry shoppers, the It Bag takes it a step further. High-end designers market these creations as one of a kind — a hallmark of their brand and a particular pricey status symbol for the discerning woman.
So does a tote with a fancy moniker make or break the lady? I think not. The popularity of the It Bag has waned in recent years, and I’ve got five reasons why. Check them out before spending your hard-earned cash on a clutch with a name.
Reason 1: The Trend Peaks Quickly
Plenty of girls wanted to be the first on campus with Balenciaga’s Lariat bag. A noble goal — but by the time their prizes arrived in the mail, the Lariat’s day in the sun was already beginning to set, and a new bag with a name was already gaining buzz in fashion circles.
That’s a classic problem with It Bags. They’re “of the moment” .Then when the moment is gone, you’re left with a memory of your brief 1st place fashion spot…and a $800 purchase that’s so last season.
Reason 2: They’re (Sometimes) Too Quirky
It Bags are often designed in exaggerated shapes, referencing very specific cultural moments. They’re pretty much the opposite of timeless. Can you wear your IT bag with a lot of your outfits?
For example: Dior’s Saddle Bag dominated the “sexy cowgirl” fashion wave of the early 2000s, and then quickly faded as the decade toned down its wildness. It’s unlikely that the trend will come back around sometime soon. Carry a Saddle Bag now and all you’ve got is an awkward, vintage Gwen Stefani vibe.
Reason 3: They’re Far from One of a Kind
It might go without saying, but hop on the It Bag bandwagon and you can be seen as just another wannabe. These bags are advertised as creative emblems, so thousands of people try to set themselves apart by owning one.
Because It Bags are so short-lived and coveted, it’s unlikely you’ll be the only girl in your group with one. The design might be original, but thousands are produced.
Reason 4: Be a Trend-Setter, not a Follower
On that note, I say don’t be a slave to fashion by desperately pursuing an It Bag. While most women love to stay on the cutting edge and enjoy the latest creativity from their favorite designers, there’s a line between fandom and worship.
Obsessed with everything MiuMiu? Show your allegiance by saving up for your favorite bag, not just the fad purse of the summer. Building a closet of your favorite items ensures you’ll always be an original. Being the girl with the It Bag can get old — why not just be the It Girl instead?
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