People’s tastes have changed since designer bags became the ‘It accessory’ in the early 2000s. From logomania and flashy emblems, fashion fans have slowly acquired a taste for simpler designs that fall on the minimalist side of the spectrum. Read: Leather tote bags, croc skin baguettes, or unassuming shoulder bags that capitalize on form and wearability.
Such a bag that captures this essence is Dior’s Bobby bag. Although a newcomer in the scene, the half-moon crossbody has captured the hearts of many with its simple shape and subtle embellishment. If you’re looking to invest in a bag that’s poised to become a “new classic,” then read on to find out more about it:
What is Dior’s Bobby bag?
The bag was launched in Dior’s Fall/Winter 2020 runway as a tribute to Christian Dior’s beloved pet dog, Bobby. It is dubbed by the French fashion brand as “an emblem of timeless modernity,” thanks to its classic design and details that pay tribute to Dior house codes. The Bobby is defined by its half-moon shape, satchel-inspired buckle, CD logo, and an embossed "30 Montaigne," a nod to the brand’s iconic Parisian address.
It isn’t the first time Dior has named something after its founder’s four-legged friend. Christian Dior created tailored skirt suits in the ‘50s inspired by his dog. "Each collection contained a suit earmarked for success called Bobby," the couturier wrote in his memoirs. There was even a perfume bottle designed in his image!
Who designed Dior’s Bobby bag?
Maria Grazia Chiuri designed the Bobby after being inspired by the idea that a handbag is every woman’s companion.
"When I focused on the notion of loyalty, I decided that the bag I was designing—a rounded shape, a crescent with a comfortable shoulder strap, an example of our craftsmen's savoir-faire and conceived to be a faithful companion in everyday life—should be named after Bobby, Monsieur Dior's beloved dog. This is how the Bobby Bag was born,” she tells Harper’s Bazaar.
With a strong background in accessory design, Grazia Chiuri was appointed creative director of Dior in 2016—the first female to take on the role in the brand’s history. She had previously been working for Valentino since 1999, managing its accessories line before taking the reins alongside Pierpaolo Piccioli, who is now the Italian brand’s sole creative director.
What are the different kinds of Dior’s Bobby bag?
Much like the design’s versatility, Dior’s Bobby comes in three different sizes to suit your needs: small, medium, and large. It comes in foolproof, luxury materials such as box calfskin, grained calfskin, and Dior’s iconic oblique jacquard canvas. Even the colorways add to the design’s wearability, which includes classic neutrals like black, white, beige, and muted hues like mint, cloud blue, denim blue—there’s also bright red that makes a great accent piece.
What’s great about the Bobby is that it can be worn three ways: by hand, on the shoulder, or crossbody. This can be done by switching out the removable shoulder strap according to your mood or occasion. Some designs have the leather shoulder strap while others have the jacquard canvas strap that adds a modern touch.
1. Small Dior Bobby
The small size has dimensions of 18 x 14 x 5 centimeters, the perfect size for a casual day bag or as a semi-formal evening clutch. Like all Bobby bags, this one’s got an interior card holder for days when you don’t want to bring your entire wallet.
Small Dior Bobby Bag in Poppy Red, $3500 (approximately P169,200), DIOR, dior.com
2. Medium Dior Bobby
At a roomier size of 22 x 17 x 6 centimeters, the Medium Bobby would make a great everyday bag. It’s compact yet spacious design won’t weigh you down on days when you’re on-the-go.
Medium Dior Bobby Bag in Beige Grained Calfskin, $3800 (approximately P183,702), DIOR, dior.com
3. Large Dior Bobby
The largest Bobby is generously sized at 27 x 19.5 x 8 centimeters, making it a viable travel companion. You’ll also breathe easy knowing your things are safely secured with the magnetic closure.
Large Dior Bobby Bag in Black Grained Calfskin, $4400 (approximately P212,708), DIOR, dior.com
How much is Dior’s Bobby bag?
The Small Bobby retails for $3500 for both calfskin and oblique canvas versions, approximately P169,200. The Medium Bobby will cost you $3800 for both box calfskin and grained calfskin versions, approximately P183,702. Lastly, the Large Bobby is priced at $4400 for box calfskin and grained calfskin versions, approximately P212,708.
Unique designs like the shearling Bobby retails for much higher though, at $4000 for the small size and $4600 for the medium one.
Why is it so expensive?
Dior’s Bobby bags are handcrafted in Florence, Italy, which is known for its quality leather goods. Bobby bags are precisely created to match the house’s high standards. Only the finest calfskin is selected to serve as the base of the bag. Afterwards, the artisan starts by using a pattern to cut the leather. The parts are then assembled and sewn one by one, from the buckle and CD logo to the ‘30 Montaigne’ emboss. The end result is a culmination of leather craftsmanship and the exacting savoir-faire of the house of Dior.
Is Dior’s Bobby bag worth it?
At a price range of $3500 to $4400, the Bobby is relatively expensive given its size. However, considering the work that goes into perfecting each piece, as well as the versatility of the sleek design itself, the Bobby is well worth the investment. Especially if you’re looking for a crossbody bag that will stand the test of time.
How do celebrities wear Dior’s bobby bag?
1. Heart Evangelista shows how all-around the Bobby bag is by wearing it with an athleisure tracksuit. Proof that it blends well with casual pieces.
2. Olivia Culpo utilizes the Bobby’s round edges to soften up a sharp, skirt suit—almost like a modern take on Dior’s ‘50s looks!
3. The strength of the Bobby lies in how it adds a degree of sophistication to any outfit. Just check out Lee Sung Kyung’s simple OOTD below!
>4. The Bobby can be worn close to the body like a fanny pack, especially with the thick jacquard strap. Here, Peggy Gouuses her ivory Bobby to elevate a very masculine look.
5. Accessories can really transform an outfit. Below, Bae Suzyuses her tan Bobby to give a luxe touch to her simple knitted top and skirt.
6. As mentioned, the Bobby makes a great travel companion. Take cues from Chiara Ferragni who matched her jacquard-strapped Bobby with a striped dress to channel her inner bohemian.
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