Perhaps the best part of working as a fashion editor in New York is seeing how the trend cycle evolves in real time. I can take a stroll through SoHo and watch our trend predictions become street style in minutes. But on the other hand, I can also observe the timeless pieces that exist outside of that cycle. For example, some handbags have such staying power that they instantly take you back to an iconic ’90s campaign. (Hello, Cindy Crawford.) MCM Worldwide often has that effect on me and so many other people. Whether it’s the reversible Liz Shopper hanging from the arm of someone crossing the street or the Ottomar Weekender Bag packed into the overhead bin during a flight, MCM pieces are instantly recognizable and never go out of style. With Cindy Crawford as the new face and an all-leather collection on display, MCM thoroughly deserved one of my deep dives. What have I found? A mix of classics, fresh styles and everything in between. Keep scrolling for all the luxury handbags worth investing in this fall.
It’s impossible to discuss the impact of MCM without mentioning the iconic Visetos monogram. This MCM logo on the OG cognac base is where it all started. Since 1976, your favorite celebrities have been wearing a variation on this classic print. The best part? The range has only gotten better over time. I mean, have you seen the crescent moon hobo bag or the mini chain backpack? They can only be described as ’90s nostalgia with a 2023 twist. Pro tip: If your outfit isn’t exciting enough, add one of these silhouettes to give it some character.
The category is maximalism. If you want to make an even bigger statement, MCM released the jumbo monogram for you earlier this year. The Maxi Visetos monogram is an enlarged version of the classic Visetos print and the collection is available in cognac and black colorways. Even though we’re in the age of stealth wealth, these pieces will really set you apart from the rest. Onlookers never have to guess where you got your incredibly cute bag. And honestly, I love the idea of people seeing me wearing a heritage brand. All the bags from this collection speak for themselves, so I would style these with a fairly neutral look (e.g. a relaxed suit or jeans and T-shirt) to give my accessory the attention it deserves.
Fashion Travia is unlike any other collection we have seen from MCM. This all-leather collection takes elements from the original Visetos collections, such as the traditional black and cognac colorways and the signature Visetos monogram, but also introduces completely new shapes, shades and logos. (FYI: The green Mode Travia bag in Spanish nappa leather has my name written all over it.) This collection is for shoppers who gravitate toward simplistic designs but don’t want to completely let go of logos. MCM’s new embossed logo style gives us the opportunity to participate in logomania in a more subdued way. Whether you carry the hobo bag or throw the wallet in your bag, you can do so knowing that your stuff will never go out of style.