Sometimes a certain something just catches your eye; it could be the shape, the colour, an echo of a memory; whatever it is you just know you want that special object.
When I first saw Longchamp’s Roseau cognac “tortoise” handbag I was fascinated – which is odd considering I generally don’t look at anything that isn’t black.
The Roseau bags are extremely classic in shape, structured but with a slightly rounded edge, making them the perfect choice for the current “ladylike” look that’s all over the catwalks.
Made from a variety of embossed leathers, the Roseau is named for its reed-shaped closure – roseau means reed in French – which also looks a little like a piece of bamboo.
The combination of the mock-tortoise embossed golden-brown leather and the “oriental” closure in silver metal makes this version of the Roseau handbag fairly scream retro 1930s elegance.
It should be swinging from the delicate hand of Gong Li’s cabaret singer character in Wong Kar Wai’s Shanghai Triad but could just as easily match the elegant wardrobe of Joan Crawford, Jean Harlow or Carole Lombard.
This bag's clean lines means the Tortoise Roseau also looks lovely with more minimal looks, a neat shift dress for example.
One of the wonderful things about a Longchamp bag is that although they look as though they’re made from the most expensive and rare of leathers, they are actually created with brilliantly conceived techniques on quality nappa leather.
If you’re concerned for the environment or squeamish about “exotic” leathers like python or crocodile being used, Longchamp is the answer. Wonderfully crafted, the embossed and engraved tortoise or other exotics, give you the luxury of the trend without upsetting your convictions.
In fact, where else could you get your hands on a “tortoise leather” bag?
The Longchamp Tortoise Roseau handbag is available from the Longchamp boutiques located at Takashimaya, Level 2, Tel: 9738 5919; ION Orchard, #03-21, Tel: 6509 8139; Paragon, #02-02/03, Tel: 6235 0498 and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, #B1-146, 2 Bayfront Avenue, Tel: 9738 5919.