Our fashion director, Deyvanshi Masrani, lists her favorite box and trunk-inspired bags that will quickly become closet staples, as this timeless style lasts a lifetime.
Louis Vuitton – Petite Malle
When it comes to box bags, no list would be complete with the most classic of all classics, the Louis Vuitton Petite Malle. Inspired by the Maison’s signature trunks made in the early 20th century, the compact style is so versatile, wearable as a clutch with an evening ensemble for a more formal look, or with the crossbody strap for a more daytime-friendly aesthetic. The magnetic closure and the signature S-lock ensure your belongings are safely enclosed while the inside flat pocket is the perfect size for cards. This is personally one of my most favorite bags—it is a real conversation piece and adds such an elegant touch to any outfit. The Petite Malle comes in a variety of styles, while pictured here is the Vernis Monogram Embosse Noir version. Prices are available upon request from select Louis Vuitton stores. Call 1.866.VUITTON for inquiries, or visit the brand’s website, www.louisvuitton.com.
Photo Credit: Louis Vuitton
Goyard – Minaudiere
Incredibly sophisticated and eye-catching, the Goyard Minaudiere is another very elegant and super cool style, easily paired with a variety of outfits. Its extra compact sizing makes it more evening appropriate, fitting the bear necessities for an upscale night out on the town. A unique element for added interest and functionality is the removable, cage-like strap, which the bag fits directly into, transforming the clutch style into a cross-body bag, without the need for hooks or rings on the bag itself. Available in a variety of colors, classic colors like black and tan are priced a little lower than the special color ways, some of which also include fun pops of Goyard colors on the inside lining. Visit your local boutique in Beverly Hills, Bal Harbor or multiple in New York—Maison Goyard on 63rd Street, Bergdorf Goodman’s on Fifth Avenue and Barneys New York on Madison Avenue.
Photo Credit: Goyard
Ximena Kavalekas – Mandolin
The Mandolin box bag is Ximena Kavalekas’ signature style that put her on the international fashion scene. Each bag is handmade in Italy from python skin, sustainably sourced from a python farm that protects those that are in danger. Ximena uses skins that are naturally shed from the protected pythons, after which, artisans in Italy hand-paint each skin to give them their beautiful colors and finishes. To further her environmentally-friendly initiatives, a percentage of sales goes directly to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Foundation with the mission of protecting the environment and ecosystem for pythons. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, each Mandolin comes with a detachable strap for multi-wearability. Shop the style on the brand’s website, www.ximenakavalekas.com, or visit one of the brand’s third party retailers like Moda Operandi or Net-A-Porter.
Photo Credit: Ximena Kavalekas
Mark Cross – Grace Small Box
Mark Cross is one of the most recognizable names when it comes to box-style bags. The Grace bag is one of the brand’s most iconic, inspired by the overnight case that Grace Kelly wore in Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window, which Mark Cross created. The smaller-scaled size is gorgeous and easy to wear, with a cute and functional top handle, giving it that little extra suitcase-like aesthetic. The style is available in an endless number of colors and finishes, such as smooth leather and rattan, and even some super high-end materials like alligator and python. All are made in Italy and include a detachable, matching cross-body strap, as well as gold-plated brass or palladium hardware, dependent on the selected color way. For more information or to purchase, visit the brand’s website, www.markcross.com or via any of its third party retailers, including FWRD, Matches Fashion and My Theresa.
Photo Credit: Mark Cross
