IMAGE: CELINE

Celine bags have come and gone (hands up if you remember the Edge or the Tie Bag) over the years, but the Classic Bag is one of the rare few designs that have indeed weathered the test of fashion’s ever-changing times. In an era where trapezoid-shaped handbags such as the Luggage and Phantom dominated Celine’s runways and ad campaigns, there was the quiet and discreet Classic Bag, coming in a boxy silhouette that was a 180-degree shift from its trendier-looking siblings. It won the fans over with its minimalistic full-leather design, finished with a simple (but stunning) metallic clasp closure devoid of any logos or loud monograms.

Another testament to its success would be the fact that the Classic Bag remains a popular design today, even coming in an all-new size introduced under the creative direction of Hedi Slimane last year. Joining Small (16 cm by 13 cm) and Medium (24 cm by 18 cm) is the newish Teen (18.5 cm by 15.5 cm), one that bridged the gap between the two sizes.

Go for the Small if you want something fun yet functional, the Teen if you’re looking for a handy size that’s all about the grab-and-go, or pick the Medium if you want something large enough that can take you effortlessly from day to night. All 3 sizes come in the same boxy shape, opening to an accordion-like interior that can be expanded to fit all your daily needs.

And something else that not many know about is the fact that you can remove its shoulder strap. Take it out and you’ve got yourself a lovely clutch, one that’s chic enough for your afternoon tea party or that fancy dinner date.

Or keep it on and it’s adjustable to several different lengths, whether you like wearing it short over the shoulder or keeping it long across the body. Prices start from SGD4600 for the Small in box calfskin and calfskin liégé (grained leather), going up to SGD4950 for the Teen and SGD5900 for the Medium. All 3 sizes are also available in exotic skins like lizard, all of which are available at the boutiques in Marina Bay Sands and Takashimaya Shopping Centre. Looking for a bag that’s as classic as it gets that will definitely stand the test of time? Well, this is definitely it.

IMAGE: CELINE