The Box Is Now Also A Bag

Cartier’s iconic red case for its jewellery and watches has been given another function.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Cartier’s iconic red case for its jewellery and watches has been given another function. Significantly upsized, and with the addition of two straps (a top handle and a detachable shoulder strap), it is the French house’s latest bag, Guirlande de Cartier. The other tweak: The latter’s lining is black calfskin, not black velvet. In three sizes (mini, S and M). Also available in green and black. From $2,770. - RT

"From its distinctive octagonal shape to its gold wreath stamp, the Guirlande de Cartier is a jewel box bag."
 
My Reading Room

"The material here is a lightweight sports mesh. Each Neeson takes several days to make."

Anya Hindmarch Brings Back The Neeson

First introduced as a woven hand/ shoulder bag in S/S ’06, The Neeson is transformed in two ways this season: as a lighter tote, sans lining, in three sizes; and as a cross-body in a range of colours. For its refresh launch, the British brand will run Bespoke Graffiti, a pop-up event with a personalisation service. Artisans will be on hand to put customers’ initials, personal words or symbols onto their Neesons, using leather threads in colours of their choice. DIY weaving kits will also be available for individuals who want to decorate their bags themselves. From $940. – RT

 
My Reading Room

"The Long Black has four-way stretch for extra comfort."

Paradigm Shift: For SG’s Take on the Casual Black Dress

After a futile five-year search for the ultimate affordable go-to dress that would be timeless and could be dressed up or down for any occasion, Audris Quek, 23, started Paradigm Shift, her label of minimalist wardrobe essentials.

Her only product right now is The Long Black, a straight-cut midi dress. When it was launched on Kickstarter last October, it attracted 155 backers who pledged close to $13,000 to make it a reality.

Made of 98 per cent cotton and 2 per cent spandex, The Long Black – machine-washable and dryer-friendly – is lightweight, breathable and wrinkle-resistant. It has a deep, eight-inch pocket on each side (pockets are always useful), a single slit on the left (for mobility) and stitched rolled sleeves. Sizes are from XS-3XL.

It is also ethically made. Quek works with Purnaa, an ethical manufacturer in Nepal that employs marginalised natives and survivors of exploitation. The brand’s first production run provided six women with 100 days of work.

At $65, from www. paradigmshiftlabel.com – RT