We're into the home straight on our countdown of the classic bags of all time, and the closer we get to the top spot, the tougher it gets to choose between designers and bags. The Baguette was always going to feature highly, however, so today is Fendi's turn to shine. Perhaps one of the best-known bags of all time, it's become a household name even for those who wouldn't recognise the bag itself.
Handbag History: Often considered to be solely responsible for starting up the "it-bag" trend, the Fendi Baguette first rose to prominence back in 1997 when Carrie Bradshaw declared it her signature bag on Sex and the City. Who could forget the scene where a mugger yelled at Carrie 'give me your bag!' and SJP's character yelled bag 'It's a bag-ette!'?
Unlike the majority of iconic bags, the Fendi is special in that it was actually created by the designer whose name it bears, in this case Silvia Venturini Fendi. It also bears the brand's famous double-Fs logo; itself designed by Karl Lagerfeld when he began working for the luxury brand back in 1962.Since then, the bag has gone from strength to strength, revitalised by many new colours and fabrics including a Raffia Baguette that was a huge hit in the summer, and even a 'make your own' Fendi Baguette kit that spoke to the crafty crowd.
In Our View: The Baguette fits perfectly under the arm, and for many it's the ideal small bag that's just large enough to carry all you need for a night out with the girls. It's neat, clean and unfussy, but can be made to look smart, casual or extravagantly dressy depending on which version you go for and how you wear it. A definite timeless piece.
Celeb Fans: Winona Ryder, Sarah Jessica Parker, Charlotte Dellal Abbey Lee Kershaw, Gillian Zinser, Rose McGowan, Julia Stegner, Mary-Kate Olsen, Ashley Olsen, Eva Longoria, Rihanna, Jessica Behr
Get the Look: The Baguette does not form part of Fendi's current collection, so you'll need to find a licensed stockist. These include Browns Fashion, Forzieri and Nordstrom. :Prices start at around £700.
Pictured above is the 'Ricami' Baguette, which is made from black satin with all-over beading. It retails for £1,230 at Browns
