callum I was prepared to write about the Charlotte Olympia Perfume bottle grasp all by itself – the design is a continuation of designer Charlotte Dellal’s strong history of whimsy and irreverence – but then I got to thinking that the concept sounded familiar. Not in a ripoff way, but in a way that made me feel like another designer had also thought of the idea this season. sure enough, after a little bit of research, I found the first retail arrival of the Lanvin runway Perfume Clutch.
Anyone who’s familiar with old-school perfume bottles right away understands why they make sense as something to translate into the evening bag world. They’re delicate, detailed, really glamorous and offer just enough vintage-inspired nostalgia to make many women smile. (Especially those of us who had particularly glamourous grandmothers.) the best handbag affect the pleasure centers in my brain in what feels like the same way that a really delicious slice of cake does, and these clutches are like a sugar jolt in accessory form.
Unsurprisingly, Lanvin and Charlotte Olympia take the concept in two very different directions; Lanvin’s interpretation is old-world French, and it’s not too literal or whatsoever kitschy. Under Alber Elbaz, Lanvin’s accessories have always delighted in a quality of knowing irreverence, but it’s never taken too far or played for a real laugh. Charlotte Olympia, on the other hand, very much wants you to giggle at her girlish literalness in everything from poodle shoes to this perfume clutch.
I’d happily carry either of these clutches, but to very different parties. Do you dig this look, or would you rather stick to a much more conventional minaudiere or box clutch? let us know in the comments.
Charlotte Olympia Perfume Clutch
$1,295 through Neiman Marcus
Lanvin runway Perfume Clutch
$3,610 through Luisa through Roma