Balmain drops the ball on its handbag collection

For all their drool-worthy blazers, jeans and shoes, Balmain really dropped the ball when it came to their introductory line of handbags. For a brand that is all about edge, we were expecting something waaaay edgier than this:

Net-a-Porter offers three Balmain handbag styles: the Balmain Leo Swarovski crystal bag, Balmain original leather fringed bag and the Balmain punk suede studded bag, and all of them are pretty pathetic. The first two are simple flap messenger styles, the third - a ‘fringed’ flap messenger. There’s nothing innovative about the styles, trims, designs - nothing! A bit of studs thrown here and there, some sparse fringe trim, that’s all. Who knew Balmain could disappoint? Guess no one’s perfect.

Gustto ‘Salto’ Flap Bag

I love the fashion industry. Just when you start to get immersed in the fashions of one season they start to bring out new styles for the next season to tempt you all over again. Although the color palettes for Fall typically aren’t as fun as Spring and Summer, I love the rich colors of Fall accessories, like caramel patent leather.

Lately I’ve been less than impressed with new Gustto designs (and to think I once loved all their bags!), but I’m adoring this Gustto ‘Salto’ Flap Bag. The structured shape is offset perfectly by the rounded bottom edges and flap front. The handle is unique in that it attaches to the back of the bag, and two front pockets offer practicality, and how cute is that random left front pocket?