If the summer’s market tote trend sparked a desire for a more refined accessory, the East-West bag offers the perfect transition into the new season. Originating in the 1950s, the sleek style is named after its elongated silhouette; a precursor to the “baguette” popularized by Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw character and her fleet of narrow Fendis.
Although the shape gives the bag a structural look, today’s East-West styles come in an array of fabrications, from supple calfskin at Dior to Givenchy’s glossy leather tote. Favoured by celebs for its effortlessly elegant look—both Anne Hathaway and Ayo Edebiri have been spotted with theirs—the East-West bag’s minimal hardware and thinner straps ensure its clean lines take centre stage, lending quiet sophistication to any outfit.
1. Jil Sander small leather shoulder bag, CDN $2,242
Made in Italy with smooth tan leather, the shape of this petite bag is artfully balanced with a wide, adjustable strap.
2. Bottega Veneta East-West Andiamo bag, CDN $6,450
This top-handle style features an elongated silhouette in woven leather with a signature knot detail across the front in a shining brass finish.
3. Khaite Simona shoulder bag, CDN $3,900
Khaite’s iteration is available in a range of textures, from hyena-print haircalf to python-embossed leather.
4. ALAÏA medium Le Click leather shoulder bag, CDN $3,950
Crafted from glossy calfskin leather, the curved shape of ALAIA’s design fits neatly under the arm.
5. Givenchy small Antigona cube leather bag, CDN $2,775
This perfectly polished black handbag is elevated by an origami-style gusset along the sides.
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