Altuzarra may be new to the business of handbags—the label only released its first in 2015, not even more than five years ago—but it is already a force to be reckoned with. Its inaugural handbag, the Espadrille, continues to be a favorite among clientele. Today, Altuzarra releases what is again posed to be a beloved accessory. The so-called Play bag is just the right mix of sophisticated, sensual and dainty, made apparent by Altuzarra’s choice of adding boho elements and hints of bondage on it.
The aptly named handbag was developed in two years, as creative director and namesake Joseph Altuzarra wanted to create one that checks all the boxes: sexy, feminine and versatile. The Play is supposed to be just the right bag for the modern woman in touch with her femininity and sexuality. It is also representative of the two facets of her life: one that is public, which Altuzarra assumes is both timeless and classy, and the other hidden from view. The creative director thought it best expressed through the boho-like structure of the bag, which is adjustable for the comfort of its wearer and is complete with elements like fringes. But Altuzarra does not go overboard with the casual by designing the spine with buckles. If those feel suspiciously similar to bondage straps, then you have it right—Altuzarra is inspired by them, giving it a fresh look that balances the loose construction of the bag while also reinterpreting what a go-to accessory should look like.
The campaign, expertly shot by model-slash-photographer Ethan James Green, gives Altuzarra’s vision for the Play justice. Green, who is known for his intimate and sensual portraits, chose to drape the bags on models who are stark naked yet comfortable in their own skin, their figures complementing the almost free-form shape of the Play bags. In other photos, the handbags were tied by sheets, evoking bondage which is still very much in theme for the new release.
While you most probably won’t be wearing the Play in the nude, the campaign helps emphasize one strong selling point for the bag: its versatility. It being twisted and slightly contorted shows that it can be worn in more ways than one: over the shoulder, carried by hand, or placed across the body. The design also makes it appropriate for the rest of the day, and even at any time of the week—the Play handbag is just like the rest of Altuzarra’s offerings in this respect.
The Play handbag is now available for purchase. It can be bought off of the Altuzarra website since the beginning of the month. It will also be among the many offerings at Altuzarra’s pop-up shop at Madison Avenue, which was launched as part of Altuzarra’s celebration of its 10th anniversary.
Image credits: Ethan James Green, Altuzarra
