Written by Sara
Saint Laurent has majorly upped its bag game in the last few years. From its classic lines like the LouLou and Lou camera bag, to the newer “IT” bag, the Icare tote, the brand is indeed weaving its way into the top of luxury. Using both Saint Laurent and YSL, the house is bringing form, functionality and fun back into a bag lover’s life.
The latest issuance will likely surprise you but brings me happy memories of my youth. Take a look at the YSL Take Away Bag . . . it’s like the grown-up version of a McDonald’s Happy Meal box.
Photo from my SA when the bag arrived
Indeed, this bag takes me right back to the days when I earned a treat from mom for doing something well in school. Maybe it’s no surprise then that I treated myself to this bag after a life milestone. Old habits die hard.
Bag Details
The Take Away Bag comes in two variations, although neither includes a toy. IYKYK. One version is black with the YSL logo in silver and the other is Dusty Vintage Brown Gold, a vegetable tanned leather, with the YSL logo in gold.
Image courtesy Saint Laurent
Photo from SA in store
On both models, the leather is embossed with the YSL initials in a quilted design, with the word “Paris” seen in intervals. This little detail makes this nostalgic inducing bag even more lovable.
Embossing details on the leather (Photo by Sara)
The interior is lined in suede and includes a patch pocket on the inside . The suede which is either gold or black, depending on the variation purchased, gives this whimsical bag just the right lux feel.
Interior with side pocket and suede lining (Photo by Sara)
Measuring at 7.4” X 8.2” X 3.9”, the Take Away Bag costs $1890 (€1450).
Availability
Currently, and unfortunately you won’t find either version in Europe as both are sold out. If you check the U.S. and EU websites regularly you might be able to snag one on pre-order with a tentative date of April 2023 for delivery. Naturally, asking your SA to keep an eye out for you is always the best approach.
First Impressions and Review
The leather itself is stiff on the body, like a true boxy bag should be. The handles, which open as you would a happy meal box, are a little less stiff for easy access but stiff enough to keep the shape of the bag for years to come.
The little tabs that go into the side slit closure are sturdy enough. However, personally I would baby this a bit, just to keep it as new as possible. But that’s just the bag lady in me.
Flaps and handles (Photo by Sara)
The handles are comfortable to hold and won’t strain you when carried for long periods. Opening and closing requires a bit of maneuvering as you need to place the bag on a surface. Truth be told, this is not supposed to be an everyday bag and so personally it doesn’t bother me at all.
On the other hand, I am curious whether there will be significant wear and tear on the flaps that close the bag. Only time will tell. But, since the overall bag quality seems high, I expect any markings will only add character. One improvement on the design though, would be the inclusion of feet at the bottom. Feet could add to the longevity of the bag.
What Fits Inside
For the all important “what’s in my bag” comparison, here’s what fit: my wallet, cardholders, coin purse, hand sanitizer, lip glosses, keys, sunglasses and phone.
It is a light bag to start with so the weight will depend on how much you carry.
The essentials fit perfectly (Photo by Sara)
Overall, I find the YSL Take Away Bag a fresh new addition. It’s a fun, relatively inexpensive way to make a style statement. Take the black for classy fun evening occasions as a true conversation starter. The gold one works for those days where you just want to enjoy the day and feel as fashionable but as carefree as a child again. Either way, it’s sure to make you smile.
Updated: February 15th, 2023
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