If you know anything about the current state of affairs in fashion, it’s that consumers are demanding a relationship with their brands.  It’s not enough to showcase the latest designs on the runway, and then expect fans to gobble them up.  On the flip side, for those of us that function on the fashion news side of things, it’s no longer enough to print press releases or simply publish blog posts.  Readers want authenticity and interaction, not a megaphone in their ear.  And no two fashion moguls have mastered this better than the bag review website, Bag Snob, and New York powerhouse DKNY.

So what better way to celebrate such a beautiful connection with one’s fans than a handbag collection?  The five pieces represent the “Five Essentials” according to the Bag Snob: the Tote, Travel, Treasure, Trendy, and the Clutch.  The collection can be viewed on the DKNY Facebook page, or on the Bag Snob main page, but just take a peek at the sketches below:

Photo: DKNY Facebook Page

So what are your first impressions?  My only complaint is that the pops of blue were not carried over into the Treasure or the Clutch.  Even if it was as subtle as a blue jewel clasp on the Clutch, or a blue interior on the Treasure, I think that small touch would have brought the entire collection together.  As they stand now, it looks to me like those two were sort of afterthoughts in the design process, rather than complementing the entire look.

Personally, I love the Travel and I still count the Treasure as one of my faves, but for completely opposite reasons.  Let’s give them each a closer look:

Photo: Bagsnob.com

The Travel bag features completely utilitarian touches such as side pockets for your passport, plane ticket, and cell phone.  The inside is divided into two compartments, one with travel-size toiletry containers and the other with a vanity mirror for post-nap touch ups.  At $565, this is certainly not a cheap addition to your traveling routine, but the functionality and quality will definitely appeal to road warriors.

Photo: bagsnob.com

To me, the Treasure is the epitome of what Bag Snob and DKNY are all about.  Effortless luxury with just a touch of cutting edge.  I love the color blocking elements that go oh-so-nicely with current trends, as well as the hot pink interior to give it a sense of youth and vibrancy.  It’s still a very expensive investment at $365, but if you want your money to make a statement, this may be the way to go.

 

So what do you think?  Will you be lined up in October to purchase one of the “Five Essentials”?

 

XO,

A