If I’ve learnt anything in my role as Who What Wear UK’s shopping editor, it’s the virtue of a good accessory. No matter how much time I spend searching for the perfect coat, flattering tailoring, versatile dresses or cosy knitwear, it’s invariably the accessories that really bring an outfit to life, and as someone with a penchant for bags in particular, I’m always on the lookout for outfit-elevating styles that are really worth your hard-earned money. Interestingly, there’s one bag in particular that has been doing the rounds on the street style circuit, reaffirming its status as a certified icon. That’s right, it isn’t a brand-new It bag, but one you already know and love.
Whilst the runways tried to convince us that the only bag trends that would matter this year are supersized XXL totes or micro, slimline baguettes, the truth is, we all just want a practical, everyday bag big enough for all of our essentials but small enough to not have to lug around. It was only a matter of time before simple shoulder bags would start cropping up again, and everywhere I look lately, the same heritage style is tucked under the arms of influencers and editors everywhere, convincing me that the Gucci Marmont is back for good (that is if it ever left).
After making their debut on the Gucci runway in 2016, the Marmont family of bags was the brainchild of then-creative director Alessandro Michele, who singlehandedly reinvented the look and feel of Gucci for an entire generation. Gone were the slick, sexy days of the Tom Ford era, and instead, a focus on the eclectic, bohemian ’70s arrived, giving us a collection of bags inspired by the Old Hollywood glamour of the Chateau Marmont hotel in Los Angeles.
Immediately, this chevron-quilted, logo-embellished, strokeably soft shoulder bag became an overnight sensation, available in a range of prints, leathers and candy-coloured velvets. Now, the collection includes bags in bucket, belt and top-handle styles, as well as card holders. It’s still the crossbody and flap styles that are proving to be the enduring successes, though.
So, what makes the Gucci Marmont bag such a hit? Well, it certainly carries all of the hallmarks of the perfect designer bag: timeless design, practical sizes, premium fabrics and of course, the instantly recognisable logo. And frankly, after the year that gave us other instant-icon bags like the Toteme T-Lock, the Loewe Puzzle Tote and the Bottega Andiamo, Gucci has done well to grab and hold our attention with not only the buzzy Horsebit chain bag but also this iconic classic that is sure to stand the test of time just as well the brand’s Jackie and Dionysus styles.
So, if you’re looking for a bag worth spending a little extra on, here’s one that can meet any dress code; can be worn crossbody, on the shoulder or as a clutch and comes in more colours, styles and shapes than any other I can think of. Not bad for a bag that’s been around for less than a decade.
The perfect throw-on-and-go size.
I love this mini bag for evening outfits.
Cream and gold is always such a luxe pairing.
This shade of blush is surprisingly versatile.
Introducing the top-handle gives us a whole new way to carry it.
Small but mighty.
Barbiecore, eat your heart out.
This is such a fun jewel tone.
There’s something so sumptuous about black velvet.
Ideal for the days when you’re travelling light.
This feels like the perfect example of Alessandro Michele’s legacy.
The fluffy finish is perfect for autumn/winter.
Oh, and it comes in candyfloss pink too.
The half-moon shapes are so elegant.
There’s no ignoring a statement style like this.
Just look at that intricate handiwork.
A crystal logo? Take my money already!
Effortlessly cool.
This would look so good with an all-white outfit.
I’m convinced that postbox red always looks expensive.
