Hello hello.
Without trying to dwell too much on the current situation that we are globally finding ourselves in, I thought this would be a pretty good time to start writing again. There’s only so many times you can scroll through Zara’s ‘new in’, look at £1m houses on Rightmove and take 100 pictures of your dogs doing… well, nothing.
(I mean… all of the above will most likely continue also).
As this blog was meant to be about fashion and lifestyle before life took over, I thought my first blog post should be about a recent purchase: that Prada bag. Yep, the Prada Re-editions.
Although I’ve come to understand this bag is a bit of a marmite situ (not naming any names Holly Bowen), I personally loved this bag as soon as I saw it. It’s clear that I’m not the only one either, seeing the popularity and attention it has had on socials. Shoulder style, 90’s vibes – so up my street. I had to invest.
So, this post is going to be a little ‘review’ about the bag so far (struttin’ around the house and playing dress up in the mirror…) and if I think it’s worth the ‘hype’.
Spoiler: it is.
Here’s why.
The Bag Itself.
Prada describes this bag as a relaunch of an iconic style. This bag has made a comeback and I for one am 10/10 happy about this.
From what I can see, the re-editions seem to have a bit more structure and a more defined shape than the original bags, but still in keeping with the original style and fabric.
These bags are available in a few different editions:
The 2005 Re-edition (Single Strap)
The 2005 Re-edition (Multi Strap)
I went for the 2005 re-edition with the single shoulder strap. I think the multiple straps and pochette edition is super cool and versatile but I just knew I would only really wear it as a shoulder bag as that’s more my style (oh, and not to forget the slight price increase…). Although the 2000 edition is very similar from what I understand, I opted for the 2005 edition with the Saffiano leather strap.
First Impressions.
The first thing I thought as I unboxed the bag was how small it was. I’m not sure why, but I had pictured it to be a little bit bigger than what it actually is? Having said that, it fits a lot more in than you’d expect from first look and I’m not sure the bag would be as effective if it was any bigger.
I think the look of the bag is quite subtle and more ‘modest’ than other Prada accessories and similar style designer bags. Whilst the bag is distinctly Prada with the logo clearly on the badge and keychain, the overall branding is quite understated and not too in your face. For me, this draws the attention to the look and style of the bag as opposed to the brand. It’s super aesthetic to look at, basically.
My favourite feature and what attracted me to this bag in the first place is the shoulder style. It’s very ‘chic’ and effortless and just gives a bit of a different vibe than a cross body bag would. I have a couple of shoulder bags and I think they can look classic and smart, but also effortless/casual at the same time.
Quality.
Whilst nylon isn’t normally seen to be the most luxurious fabric out there (and sort of reminds me of my school swimming bag), I think the bag makes a real statement with this fabric and makes it feel high quality.
It seems like it will be fairly durable (so far anyhow) and I’m assuming won’t scratch or mark as easily as a leather or velvet bag. It is definitely more functional for every day needs and usage, being more lightweight, low maintenance with enough room for your essentials.
I think my choice of the 2005 edition with the Saffiano leather strap gives the bag a bit more quality than the fabric strap on the 2000. I don’t think this makes a drastic difference, though. The interior lining is thick and nothing short of the luxury you would expect from a typical Prada bag. The only thing I would say is that it would be nice to have a little pocket inside the bag to separate certain items. If I’m being really picky. We love a pocket don’t we.
Colour.
The range of these bags is quite extensive. There is an array of different colours and even textures to try to choose from. Bright pastels and classic colours for every day wear, it was difficult.
It’s clear that neutral tones are having a bit of a moment so I played it safe with ‘Cameo Beige’. As my wardrobe is mostly blacks, greys, whites and neutrals, I thought this colour could be worn with most things… aaand I already have far too many black bags.
I also love love love this bag in the Ruched Black Nylon and the ‘Astral Blue’ shade.
Is It Worth It?
Incase I haven’t given it away yet…
– Y E S –
While the price you’re paying for such a high quality brand is good in itself, for this bag in particular, the brand doesn’t make it what it is, the style, material and functionality does. Although the fabric can be seen as a lesser quality than others, it’s going to be a lot more durable and wearable which means you can get more use from it. The range of the bags available is impressive and shows Prada has consciously thought of many different personal styles and preferences with its relaunch. Whether you dress this bag up or down, it’ll work. Top marks Prada.
I’m a huge believer that key accessories will make an outfit go from an 8 to a 10, high street and designer, and I feel like this is definitely going to be one of those pieces for me.
Below I have linked other bags that are of a similar style that I am also loving at the moment. Whilst I do think this bag is worth the investment, there are plenty of similar styles out there from my favourite high street stores.
Topshop ‘Brown Ruched Nylon Shoulder Bag’
Topshop ‘Black Knot Nylon Shoulder Bag’
& Other Stories ‘Small Nylon Shoulder Bag’
The fact that this bag has made such a comeback just proves it is a style that will come back around and we will see again and again.
So that’s it. I really do love this bag. Perhaps not a necessity during a pandemic or suitable for your daily dog walk, but I am so looking forward to wearing this out the house when things have returned to some sense of normality.
Although in the midst of what is going on in the world this blog content may seem a little out of place, I still think it is really important to continue to do what you enjoy and take your mind elsewhere if it helps you get through each day. Whether that’s running 5k’s, making Tik Tok videos, online shopping or dressing up as Joe Exotic (we love to see it) – you do you.
Amy x
