It’s been a while since I’ve gotten excited about a designer handbag, but my latest obsession has been Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch bag. As I’m sure you guys know by now, I have a thing for designer pieces but will often spend a lot of time researching something before caving in. This bag definitely caught my eye when I saw one of my favorite style icons carrying it (Rosie Huntington-Whitely) and soon after, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. It’s quickly become this season’s hottest bag and keeps selling out.

Bottega Veneta’s ‘The Pouch’ bag resembles an oversized vintage coin purse, but comes with a modern flair that feels grown up and sophisticated. The bag is incredibly soft and the large size can actually hold quite a bit. Although it’s technically a clutch, it’s super functional for daytime or evening. The bag feels quite minimalistic and simple in design, but that also happens to be one of my favorite things about it. I love that it perfectly complements any outfit – and how well it pairs with both dressy and casual looks.

This bag is no doubt one of the trendiest pieces on the market right now and can be difficult to get your hands on. I wanted to go ahead and put together a full review – and answer some of the questions I get most so that you can decide if it’s worthy of becoming your next investment piece.

Does it scratch easily?

The Pouch bag is currently available in three textures – smooth calf skin, intrecciato (Bottega Veneta’s iconic woven leather), and cocco souple (croc-embossed). I went with the smooth leather since I felt that it looked more clean and classic, which is right in line with my style. While the leather is soft, it’s not prone to scratching. I would be more careful with the lighter colors, but the leather isn’t super porous so it’s not prone to color transfer. That said, the bag holds quite a bit so you can easily carry the dust bag inside to use as needed.

What size is best?

This clutch is available in two different sizes – small and large. I own the bigger version which measures 7.1″ x 15.7″ x 7.1″ (versus the smaller one of 5.1″ x 8.6″ x 1.9″). As you can probably tell, the normal size is quite oversized for my petite frame, but I actually love the look of it. It’s functional enough for day or night whereas the mini size is a bit too small for my taste. If you prefer straps on your bags, then it’s important to note that the mini pouch does come with a shoulder strap.

Is it worth the price? Would I buy it again?

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this bag and ended up purchasing two of them (white and camel) because I loved it so much. The oversized, voluminous design is unlike any clutch I’ve owned before. It’s beautifully made from super soft leather, and comes with a rigid frame that doesn’t lose its shape. It’s seriously the softest bag I’ve ever owned and the fact that it features a magnetic closure versus a zip or clasp makes it so unique. The classic yet modern feel of the bag ensures it will stand the test of time – and I just know I’ll use it regularly even years down the road. Despite the high $2,400 tag, I didn’t mind paying full price for both of my clutches and I don’t regret a single penny. I would definitely buy them again.

Who is it not right for?

I love having a variety of bags to pick from and a clutch is one that’s been missing in my wardrobe. It’s one of those pieces that can really complete a look, especially for a night out or special occasion when you want to look punctuated and dressed up. That being said, if you’re in the market for a bag you can tote around everyday, this probably isn’t the best option since it doesn’t come with straps and wouldn’t be convenient for errands – unless you own the mini, which doesn’t hold much. I’d also recommend skipping out on it if you’re not much of a clutch person and don’t like to carry your bags in hand.

Where to buy it?

Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch is fashion’s latest “It” bag, which means it’s super difficult to track down right now. It sold out quickly from retailers I typically buy designer bags from, such as Net-a-Porter and MyTheresa. Fortunately, this bag is in stock now in limited colors on the Bottega Veneta site with other options available for pre-order. I’m also excited to announce that I started a new Instagram page (@shopmiamiamine) that locates hard-to-find and sold out luxury pieces like The Pouch. I currently have brand new white ones available for purchase.  You can follow me here and DM me for details.

The woven intrecciato version is also available here. If you’re looking for something other than black, you’ll probably have to wait at least two months for it. I recommend getting on the list so you can grab it as soon as the next batch becomes available. With hot ticket items like this, I wouldn’t be surprised to see it sold out for months at a time. Many retailers are indicating arrival next spring.

xo, Maria

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