Are the Chloe Paddington, Balenciaga First and Marc Jacobs Stam still relevant?

Though it was named after Jessica Stam, a then up-and-coming model in 2005, why do you think the bag got its relevancy in the 2000s? 
Nejla Finn (NF): Gifting campaigns? To tell you the truth, most of those [bags] were not cheap, and on top of that, Marc Jacobs had such an aura.  These top models of the 2000s were some of his best friends, and if they were gift[ed] something and seen sporting it, eventually it will trickle down to the rest of us.

The shape of his bags was very specific, and very recognizable and at the time, they were not necessarily small. They were actually big. So if you look at all the street style photography of those celebrities, you couldn't miss the bag. It was just in your face, right? So, I think that's why we all recognize them from back in the day. Now, their aesthetics are very specific. Who knows? Fashion surprises me every day. 

Sabrina Joseph (SJ): Because it was a perfect representation of the era's fashion trends! Which included a mix of classic, feminine styles with edgier, more modern elements. The Stam bag, with its quilted leather, chunky chain strap, and signature kiss-lock closure captured the essence of this trend perfectly. It was a modern twist on a classic style with just the right amount of edge to make it stand out. Additionally, the bag was practical and versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of consumers, making it an instant classic. The fact that it was named after a popular model, Jessica Stam, also helped to generate buzz and interest around the bag.

NF: Good question. I don't know, actually. I don't know if those generations are as sensitive as we used to be when it comes to the designer. They're a little bit more agnostic brand-wise. It has to fit a whole aesthetic, and I think those bags fill the whole aesthetic. 

SJ: Gen Z and Millennials have different consumption habits and preferences, with Gen Z being more focused on sustainability and affordability, and Millennials being more focused on quality and investment pieces. However, both generations have shown a willingness to invest in vintage and pre-owned luxury items, which are often seen as more sustainable and affordable options than buying new.

The fact that Marc Jacobs's target market is now Gen Z suggests that there may be an increase in interest in the brand’s vintage and pre-owned pieces by younger consumers. This could include the Marc Jacobs Stam bag, which has become a coveted vintage piece among fashion enthusiasts and collectors. 

Since it was released during the Phoebe Philo years, what qualities did you think made the Paddington an “It” bag? 
NF: Okay, so Phoebe Philo just started to develop a following. They did it in so many different colours. The price point was pretty affordable, but the weight of this bag was absolutely horrible. I mean, I personally never bought the Paddington, but I have friends who were crazy about it.

We were entering a lot of change in fashion. So I think that time, this consumer wanted to differentiate themselves from what their mums were wearing or their grandmothers were wearing. And it felt like also staying away from the big groups.

SJ: First and foremost, its unique and innovative design. The slouchy, oversized shape with soft, supple leather and intricate detailing, together with the signature padlock and key that adorned the front made it highly sought after and recognisable.

Secondly, its versatility bridged the gap between casual and luxurious effortlessly.  Whether it’s paired with the classic white t-shirt and jeans or a chic evening look, the Paddington adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit. Thus, this has made it a staple in the wardrobes of fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike, appealing to those who valued long-lasting and timeless pieces.

Lastly, the bag’s limited availability played a significant role in its “It” status. It was intentionally produced in small quantities, creating a sense of exclusivity and rarity. Combined with high demand, this resulted in long waiting lists and increased desire for the bag. Furthermore, celebrities and influencers often sported the Chloé Paddington, enhancing its desirability and cementing its status as an “It” bag.

NF: I think the celebrity endorsement psychology has changed. I think the public is also very agnostic about it. They do realize that those are gifts. It works on some, but it doesn't work as well as it used to. Hence, the backlash on a lot of influencers who are endorsing all sorts of things. And the consumer, like you just read the comments, sometimes the consumer is like, “Yeah ok, right? You were paid to say that.” So, I don't know.

SJ: Yes! From effective marketing and media exposure, the attention garnered from fashion magazines, red carpet appearances, and celebrity endorsement, has made the bag become synonymous with luxury and style which has helped generate significant buzz. This should not be overlooked as its role is significant in the Paddington’s longevity. Thus, helping to sustain the demand by creating a sense of exclusivity and desirability through strategic marketing campaigns.

The First was the OG influencer bag as it was gifted to models and celebrities before its release. Do you think its seeding campaign helped to garner interest in the bag? 
NF: I don't know the classic, but what I call the classic Balenciagas really have always kept a community. They have their own groupies. I always found it fascinating as I was selling out of Balenciaga on the site, and it's never dependent on any of their current campaigns. You had people who collected them because of the different leather and colours, and I have some friends who used to be crazy about Balenciagas and they still keep them.

They're like, “Oh, it's just an easy bag to wear, and I don't really care if people think I'm fashionable or not”. Those Balenciagas have a very specific customer. I would say the relationship with the customer is very different. The new ones, I don't know. I don't think they talk the same way to this community. But the Balenciaga, at least from our experience, we were always surprised. Even with a heavily used Balenciaga bag, we still managed to find a home for it.

SJ: Yes, most definitely! The seeding campaign played a significant role in generating interest and hype around the Balenciaga First bag. By gifting the bag to high-profile models and celebrities before its official release, Balenciaga was able to create buzz and anticipation for the bag among fashion insiders and fans.

The use of influencers, bloggers and celebrity endorsements has become an increasing tactic in the fashion industry, as these figures have significant cultural influence and can help create a sense of exclusivity and desirability around the product. By associating the Balenciaga First bag with fashionable and influential individuals, Balenciaga was able to position the bag as a must-have accessory for trendsetters and fashion enthusiasts. This positioning helped to create a sense of excitement and anticipation around the bag's official release, as consumers clamoured to get their hands on the same accessory.

NF: Okay, the Cagole, I mean, this is me talking personally, feels like an afterthought.

I don't know how to explain it. It's neither here nor there. It's like we mixed different things and I don't feel that it has gelled the same way that their other models have with the consumer. I mean, we didn't have a lot of Cagoles here, but the few times that we received them, I didn't feel that the usual Balenciaga collectors were crazy about it.

SJ: There are several reasons why customers continue to be drawn to the Balenciaga First bag. Firstly, the Balenciaga First bag has a timeless and iconic design that has remained relevant and desirable over the years. Its clean lines, practical size, and understated elegance make it a classic accessory that can complement a wide range of outfits and styles. The bag's popularity among celebrities and models during its early years also helped to establish its status as a must-have accessory, which has contributed to its enduring appeal.

But, the Balenciaga First bag is still relatively rare and exclusive, which adds to its allure for collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Its limited availability on the primary market and frequent sell-outs on resale platforms make it a coveted item that is prized by those who appreciate its design and heritage.

Finally, the Balenciaga First bag has a rich history and legacy, which adds to its value and appeal to customers. It was the original It bag of the early 2000s and played a significant role in shaping fashion trends and influencing the design of subsequent handbags. For collectors and fashion enthusiasts, owning a piece of fashion history like the Balenciaga First Bag can be a powerful and meaningful experience.