When it comes to fashion people, we all tend to have our niche. Whilst I can appreciate all categories from an exquisitely made coat to a refined pair of boots, handbags are my real obsession.
The first designer bag to join my collection was in fact, a Mulberry Bayswater. Classic, understated and of course, beautifully made. That was over ten years ago, and right now my adoration of the bag has been revitalised thanks to its latest redesign, and I'm already predicting that this will be the It bag of 2025. Meet the Soft Bayswater bag.
In the midst of the shift towards elegance, Mulberry has taken an even more refined approach when updating the Bayswater for 2024. Of course the original still has great staying power, and that can be seen from the design details that are carried over into the Soft Bayswater's creation. For example, the panel detailing that leads from the straps all the way down the front of the bag, or the signature flap closure.
Where the design deviates from the original blueprint is subtle. The straps have been elongated, ready to be worn over the shoulder, as well as cupped in the crook of an arm as needed. From Alaïa's Le Teckel to The Row's EW Margaux, the defining silhouette of the moment is an elongated east-west shape, and the Soft Bayswater's stretched shape is subtle, thanks to the exposed side panels that further accentuate the shape.
Tassel details complete the bag, with a sweet touch of movement and texture on the sides. Unlike the Bayswater, the recognisable Postman's Lock has not been transferred over to the new style, but replaced with a simple foil embossing of the brand's name near the base, letting the design and quality speak to how high-end the bag is.
Currently, small Soft Bayswater is available in seven shades, though I have to say the black cherry version is my personal favourite and the one I predict will sell out first. Alongside, there's the regular Soft Bayswater, a larger style for those who look for extra room, or simply love the oversized look.
Keep scrolling to shop the Mulberry Soft Bayswater bag and explore more It bags.
SHOP THE MULBERRY SOFT BAYSWATER BAG:
This currently holds the number one spot on my wish list.
Brown suede in a timeless shape? This is destined to be a best-seller.
There's something so good about this deep navy shade.
If you want a versatile shade that isn't a classic neutral, look to soft greens.
The microsuede lining keeps the refined feel going throughout this bag.
Classic black is always a smart choice.
Pure perfection from every angle.
The oversized silhouette makes this a great everyday companion.
Classic browns always feel timeless.
Shop More It Bags
The east-west Margaux is back in stock (for now).
Destined to be adored.
I've heard that this bag is surprisingly roomy.
Add richness with deep green in contrasting soft suede and smooth leather.
The bag that continues to sell out everywhere.
Another east-west silhouette to adore.
The Tote Bag has become an It piece this year, and this deep green shade is so good.
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