Christmas came a little early for me this year; in late November my husband surprised me with this bag and to say I was stunned, would be the absolute understatement of the year. Naturally, this bag comes with a story … for Fall 2012, Prada created a limited edition collection of handbags (and a few matching wallets) in a leopard pattern – the ‘Cavallino’, inspired by Roberto Cavalli’s iconic use of leopard print – and made available in two colours: honey toned & the darker ebony shown here.
Well, it turns out that the Montréal Prada boutique at Holt Renfrew received a very small amount of this collection – in fact, only 2 of this particular tote – with one sold to a woman visiting from Brazil. That left one more, this one, which is now in my possession! I’m still reeling over this last tidbit, as these “one-of-a-kind” scenarios never happen to me!
The Inspiration: Robert Cavalli “leopard” fashion
The Muse: the black leopard
Prada Cavallino Tote – Made in Italy of leopard-print dyed calf hair, this open tote measures 9 5/8″H x 16″ W x 10″D and weighs 2.5 lbs, with hand-stitched double handles, brass hardware, and snap side closures, along with four domed brass “feet” on the bottom for added protection. The interior is fully lined in black Prada logo print, with 2 large zippered pockets and 3 open pockets, 2 of which are trimmed in the same leopard-print calf hair print as the exterior.
The handles feel quite sturdy, and make carrying this bag very easy, whether in the crook of the arm or holding it in hand; winter wear is too bulky for carrying this bag over the shoulder, but I’m sure that won’t be an issue once the coats go into storage. To be honest, I actually prefer holding the bag in the crook of my elbow, as it not only looks more ladylike that way, but makes access to interior contents completely effortless.
With a bag as large as this, you have to be careful to not overstuff it; first of all, it becomes ungainly, heavy, and uncomfortable to carry, and secondly, you run the risk of distorting the shape in the long run. That’s not to say I won’t find myself throwing in a bunch of things at times, but as is my habit, I always re-organize my bag’s contents when I return home. Yeah, I’m a little OCD that way. The bag has no front closure – if you don’t feel your handbag is secure unless it zips closed, then you’ll probably hate this one, but again, carrying it in front ensures a good measure of safety for me. The convenience of the side snaps means you can open them up if you’re in need of more room – say, while travelling – although, I like the more triangular look of them snapped closed.
The attention to detail is amazing, from the hand-stitching, to the nap of the exterior all facing the same direction (yes, I find myself petting it), to the solid & tarnish-free brass hardware, with the Prada logo proudly affixed to the front. It’s a fact: I am in love with this bag.
Prada Cavallino Tote – logo detail
Prada Cavallino Tote – interior view
Prada Cavallino Tote – snap closure detail
Prada Cavallino Tote – side view
My Precious: proudly carrying the Prada Cavallino Tote
… and a final view
Final thoughts: My husband says that I look different when I’m carrying this bag; beaming, is the word he used. Why, yes … I do believe I AM beaming! I own several beautiful items, and over the years my husband has showered me with many stunning luxury designer goods, but there’s an indefinable ‘something’ about this Cavallino Tote which makes it stand head & shoulders above all that – everything about it just works. Oh yeah, having total strangers constantly stop to ask you about your bag, isn’t a bad feeling either! All in all, this will be something I intend to cherish and eventually pass on to my daughter – but not just yet; I still have some enjoying to get out of my system first!
Best Christmas ever!
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