Think of Radley, and you're probably getting visions of brightly coloured, boxy leather bags with the distinctive doggie logo peeping back at you. The brand has certainly become a well-loved accessory stalwart, but I'm sure I'm not alone in thinking it's all a bit 'prim and proper'. The ladies I've known with Radley bags have always been smart but conservative dressers, often with an actual dog to match their luggage tags (seriously). So I was excited to hear that the label is taking a new and more adventurous direction this season, re-affirming its roots in London's alternative fashion capital, Camden Town.
For Spring/Summer 2010, the well-known styles have been all deconstructed a bit: lines softened and design experimentation ramped up. Colourful leathers still predominate, but there's more of a seaside feel, with pale slate greys, sunny yellows and candy pinks replacing the usual primaries. For the first time ever, the label has some non-leather bags too, with pretty floral fabrics and candy stripes. Even the dog motif is taking a back seat, with an option to hide him in a cute envelope charm.
I think this is a breath of new life for Radley (now called Radley London) and look forward to seeing the new range out and about from next March.
The bag Lady's been gadding about town this week, checking out some of the new ranges that are set to arrive in the shops in time for the coming autumn and winter - the season we optimistically prefer to call "party season"!
The first new range I've had the chance to check out is Mischa Barton's latest collection, which we can't bring you till the autumn, but let's just say I'm thrilled at how seriously she's taking the 'going out' vibe of the season with her new designs. In the meantime, she's got some fabulous new products out this week to see you through what's left of summer and beyond.
Roomy, tactile bags in slouchy or more boxy forms dominate these items from the A/W range - many decorated with tassels or studs with a choice of brighter and more demure colours. I'm a big fan of the new brocade effect handbag and clutch pictured above, which adds texture and intrigue to the range.
Find the full range at Mischa Barton's handbag store
One of my favourite accessory collections that I saw this press day season was definitely the offering from ASOS. Trendy detailing, such as zips, chains and studding was very much apparent, as was the use of distressed leather, metallics and a subtle 80s flair. As you would expect from ASOS, the price points have just as much range as the selection itself, and you can find yourself everything from a cheap but cheerful evening clutch to an investment designer handbag for everyday use. Jewellery was pretty "out there", and particularly striking were the chunky metal pieces (flamingo earrings anyone?) and tough-girl studded bracelets.
Click on the image below to get a preview.
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