This Gargantuan Handbag Is Meant for a Modern-Day Mary Poppins

(Bloomberg Businessweek) -- Not so long ago, Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia sent supersized, almost comically large handbags down the runway when the micro-bag still reigned supreme. Fast-forward to this season, and every big name is creating its own gargantuan carryall—emphasis on carrying it all. Designed for the modern-day Mary Poppins who wants to pack gym clothes, day-care supplies, and her notes for a portfolio review in one place, this 19-inch-long Marni handbag ($3,190) is a counterpoint to all those itsy-bitsy clutches.

THE COMPETITION

• Almost 26 inches tall and more than 16 inches wide, the Bottega Veneta Maxi Cabat bag ($9,500) is the largest in the brand’s collection that’s not luggage. Made of nappa leather, it’s one of the first pieces from its new designer, Daniel Lee.

• Yves Saint Laurent’s Manhattan large canvas tote bag ($2,205) is more than 19 inches long and 14.5 inches tall. Trimmed with black leather, the bag bears a small, gold-toned metal logo between push-lock fasteners.

• The 22-inch-long Rajah maxi-tote from Gucci ($3,200), lined with a suede-like microfiber, can be carried or worn over the shoulder.

THE CASE

Most purses hover at about nine inches long and stand six or seven inches high. Marni’s turquoise leather handbag is more than twice that length and, at 10 inches tall, deeper as well. Inside, a suede interior features a separate leather pocket with a zippered closure, so you can find smaller items easily. A minimalist magnet clasp keeps the whole thing closed, but you’ll probably want it to stay open—there’s always room for more stuff inside. $3,190; 212 257-6907

To contact the editor responsible for this story: James Gaddy at jgaddy@bloomberg.net, Chris Rovzar

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