"3.1 Phillip Lim" 09-12 Ribbon design stud decorated leather bag

From 3.1 Phillip Lim, known for its sharp details and a strong sense of credibility in the fashion industry,

We introduce an iconic piece.

This exquisite piece embodies a contrasting aesthetic, where the sweetness of the ribbon is tightened by the cold shine of studs and metal mesh.

What first catches the eye is the bow (ribbon) motif flap on the front, with three-dimensional curves creating the face of the bag and giving it a strong clutch-like front presence. The detailed placement of small conical gold studs across the surface elevates the design from mere decoration to a "surface sculpture" that amplifies the leather's shadows, which is the elegance of this piece. Furthermore, the gold metal mesh running vertically through the center introduces a sharp line against the soft textured leather, converging the tension of femininity and punk into a single point.

The body is made of supple black leather, with an exquisite balance of elasticity when held and structural integrity that prevents it from collapsing when placed down. The sides have deep gussets, providing the strength of a "box" that contains the contents, while the opening visible from the top is carefully edged to avoid becoming too rough. The interior features a light-colored lining for high visibility, and multiple pockets ensure practicality despite the aggressive appearance, reflecting the luxury typical of New York at the time. It also comes with a shoulder strap, allowing the bold design to be balanced through how it is carried, making it easy to incorporate into daily use.

The reason why it can be estimated to be from around 2009 to 2012 is primarily because the decorative design that strongly emphasizes the bow, studs, and metal elements, which are symbols of the "Edie" series, aligns with the period when the brand was sublimating rock chic into couture. Additionally, considering the subsequent trend towards more minimal and functional lines, this piece is positioned as a product from a phase where ornamentation was accepted as a reflection of the era's atmosphere and was also of high quality.

Styling is most beautiful when the bag's strength is the main focus, and for example, it can be perfectly completed by simply layering a minimal shirt or a neat knit with tailored slacks or a straight long coat. If leaning more towards a dressy look, pairing a flowing one-piece or a simple setup with just a single "metal line" accent creates a good harmony, and without over-decorating, the bag's aesthetic of contradiction sets the overall style's tone.

Definitely take this opportunity.