Way back in 2004, Chloé’s then 31-year-old creative director Phoebe Philo debuted a millennial classic. The heavy, top-handle Paddington bag (instantly recognisable for its logo padlock) rapidly claimed cult status. “Every one of the 8,000 models created for spring 2005 sold out before arriving in stores,” American Vogue reports.
From the era’s mischievous It girls and supermodels, to punk singer Courtney Love, seemingly no-one was immune to the Paddington’s slouchy-chic charms. Even Chloé’s current creative director Natacha Ramsay-Levi. With the recent launch of her Aby bag, the Parisian designer has put her own stamp on the iconic Noughties hit, delivering a neat workwear hero with added character. Here’s everything you need to know about the revival of the Paddington bag.
Why are we talking about the Paddington again?
Well, thanks to the resurgence of kitten-heel mules, indigo denim and cowl-neck going-out tops on Instagram, it was only a matter of time before Depop’s influential community sellers turned our attention to the Paddington.
Read more: This Cloud-Shaped Clutch Bag Is A Contender For It Bag Of The Summer
Who wore it the first time around?
This was the era when celebrities carried handbags on the red carpet, something you are very unlikely to see today. Kate Moss, Paris and Nicole, Jennifer Lopez, Lindsay Lohan, plus a roster of music and TV soap stars, rarely let their Paddingtons out of sight (or the crook of their arms).
How are we wearing it now?
The Aby, like its predecessor the Paddington, will toughen up a pared-back slip dress and barely-there sandals, but works just as well with next season’s heritage trench coats and an indulgent knit sweater. Consider this the year-round investment piece that your bank balance will thank you for in the months to come.
More from British Vogue: