«One Fendi baguette, please.»
Let’s talk about the iconic handbag that transformed Fendi from a brand known primarily for leather and fur fashion into a powerhouse in the world of luxury accessories.
It was 28 years ago, in 1997, that Silvia Venturini Fendi, granddaughter of Adele and Edoardo Fendi, drew inspiration from Parisian women and their effortlessly chic way of carrying baguette bread under their arms. Together with the legendary Karl Lagerfeld, she designed the Baguette bag, which quickly earned its status as an it-bag – a must-have accessory for the fashion elite.
photo: spotlight/fendi
The Baguette has evolved over the years, with more than 1,000 variations of the original design. However, its distinctive silhouette remains unchanged: a short strap for effortless carrying and a compact 26 cm x 14 cm size. For those who love miniatures, Fendi introduced the Pico Baguette – a 4 cm x 4 cm version that is more of an accessory for your bag rather than a stand-alone piece.
photo: INSTAGRAM/@FENDI
The Baguette bag has been spotted on A-list celebrities, from Kim Kardashian to Jacob Elordi, who prefers a longer strap version. However, its cult status is largely thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker and the legendary TV series. In Season 3, Episode 17, Carrie Bradshaw is mugged on the streets of New York City. The scene became fashion history:
– "Give me your bag!" the mugger demands.
– "It's a Baguette!" Carrie corrects him, visibly shaken.
photo: INSTAGRAM/@FENDI
This one-liner transformed the Baguette bag into a pop culture phenomenon, making it the centerpiece of exclusive collaborations with Sarah Jessica Parker, Rihanna, and renowned artist Rachel Feinstein.
Though the Fendi Baguette has undergone numerous redesigns and even a temporary halt in production, it remains an undisputed favorite among fashion lovers looking to make a statement and express their individuality.
