For those looking for something designer and dainty, but slightly larger than wallets on chains, the Miss Vara Bow Crossbody Bag ($750) from Salvatore Ferragamo is a fine choice. It is a low-key bag that doesn’t have many bells and whistles, with SF’s signature grosgrain bow with logo hardware as its only trimming.
At about 10 ounces empty and measuring 7-1/2″ W, 5-1/4″ T, and 1-1/2″ D, the bag isn’t designed for heavy-duty use. There is one inside slip pocket, but no other compartmentalization built in. At capacity, it will fit a full-size wallet, a smartphone, a few small beauty products, a compact glasses or sunglasses case, and keys.
Miss Vara’s simple elegance allows it to be worn to day appointments and on evening dates. The long chain strap, with a 23-inch drop, can be used as a crossbody or shoulder strap, or can be tucked into the bag, for the bag to be worn as a clutch.
The treated saffiano leather is sturdy, but not damage proof. Owners of this bag should be careful to not apply flattening forces to it, as creases may be permanent.
Seasonless colors do not typically go on sale, and seasonal colors typically sell out quickly once marked down. While Bloomingdale’s often excludes SF from its storewide sales (though look for loyallist extra power points events), SF regularly participates in Neiman Marcus and Saks gift card, F&F, or buy-more-save-more events.
In the end, I decided against keeping the Miss Vara as I consider buying the slightly larger Ginny Shoulder Bag ($1150) instead.
Buy this bag at Saks, Zappos (in new bisque, rosso red, nero black, and cielo blue), Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus (in black and red).
