Modern Classic Vs. Trendy

When I recently started cleaning out my closet and edited my bags down to four, I knew I would want to add one, possibly two pieces. But my requisite is that they cannot be trendy or something I will tire of. At the same time, I want something that feels modern and fresh. I was thinking about the Bottega Veneta pouch, but the version above with a handle, because it’s more pragmatic when I’m running around the city. But I wasn’t sure. Is that bag a new modern classic or just trendy? The shoes, which I do really love, but passed on are definitely trendy. (Also I imagine my big toe going through the mesh after a few wears.)

There is nothing wrong with having a couple of trendy items in your wardrobe, pieces that refresh whatever you’re wearing. But designer handbags are investments these days and I don’t encourage spending a lot on something you can’t carry for a while. So that got me thinking, when does something become a modern classic? And what makes it so? If I think back on the pieces in the last few years that fit the modern classic description–certain Celine bags, those updated Chanel slingbacks, they are all pieces that are simple in design. No bells and whistles about them or doo-dads hanging off them. They are all also pragmatic in design, which isn’t a sexy word, but when you’re spending a lot of money, it should be something that you can wear often and with everything. The problem with new classics is you don’t know they are until a few years down the road when they’ve stood the test of time.

I’m making an educated guess that the BV pouch bag will make it into this category. I just might take the plunge. (Shoulder pouches available here and here.)