2008 Etro Runway Campaign Red Leather Fringe Shoulder Bag

It is no surprise that this bag is from Etro. A family owned Milan-based business since 1968, Etro’s offerings are defined by their gentle slide between South Asian influence and Italian chic. This red leather handbag with loads of swishing fringe was a signature piece in Etro’s 2008 line, making its way down the runway and appearing on print advertisements in both red and a deep gothic purple.

The bag is constructed from pliable leather, which has absorbed the red dye deeply. The interior features one central compartment accessed through a center top silver-toothed zip with long leather pull. The interior is lined in purple waterproof nylon and has a wall zip pocket with designer label sewn into lower edge stitching.

The front flap pocket is accented with a polished purple stone set into an oval metal frame and pays subtle homage to Italy’s illustrious marble work, which is present in everything from Palladian Villas to contemporary architecture. The dense fringe around the perimeter jumps in delightful spasms as you walk. The bag combines expert stitching with durable hardware and “ETRO” engraved silver studs. The overall effect is one that charms with its subtle allusion to the innate historicism of Italian design.

As said by Jacopo Etro, creative director for accessories, “No vintage – ever. We want to offer the unexpected.” Indeed, they have done that with this extraordinary bag. [Quote from: Zargani, Luisa. WWD; New York Vol. 187, Iss. 92, (May 3, 2004): 18.]

Measurements:

Strap drop: 9 inches

Bag height, not including fringe : 10 inches

Width: 9 inches

Depth: 3 inches

This red leather fringed shoulder bag from Etro’s 2008 line is in excellent preowned condition. Some surface scratches are visible on the purple stone. Featuring a heavy perimeter of red and brown dyed leather fringe, the bag is constructed from the finest quality leather.

The interior bag has one main compartment accessed through a zipper at center top. Lined in waterproof purple nylon, the interior features one wall pocket with zipper. A polished purpled stone is set onto a front flap pocket with an ovoid metal frame.

Straps are topstitched onto the exterior of the bag, extending up to a 9” drop. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.