Every year, French shoe and accessory designer Christian Louboutin creates exquisitely handcrafted limited edition handbags that feature a particular country’s folklore and customs. He’s produced exquisitely created bags that represent Africa, Mexico, even Manila. And this year, he’s been inspired by Portugal. Baroque Access has all the details
Christian Louboutin’s Portugaba bags are a thing of beauty. The French fashion designer, most famous for his shoes with their shiny red-lacquered soles, recently presented his latest creations for Summer 2019 to the world. These exquisite, handmade totes pay tribute to Portugal’s unique craftsmanship and exceptional savoir-faire. In either black or white, the bags are completely crafted by hand by 11 skilled Portuguese craftsmen from all over the country, including the handles and fringes. Each component has been created using a specific traditional technique, which is why these bags are always so sought-after.
Louboutin’s iconic summer Portugaba totes are crafted from hand-woven, hand-embroidered ecru cotton. Their multi-colored woollen tassels and fringes are inspired by traditional costumes and their ceramic beads and CL coat of arms are a nod to traditional Portuguese artistry. The inside of the tote reveals a lining inspired by the country’s iconic azulejos tiles. Practical and functional, the tote can be held by its two top handles, or worn cross-body thanks to a removable shoulder strap.
Louboutin loves Portugal. In fact, he has a second home in the country on the breathtaking Alentejo coastline, and rumor has it that he’s actually building a hotel there, too.
Of course, in true Louboutin fashion, the French designer not only handpicks a country or continent for the bags, he also gives back. Ten percent of the profits of these unique handbags will go to the Associaçao Portugal A Mao – Centro De Estudos E Promoçao Das Artes E Oficios Portugueses, to uphold the protection of Portuguese craftmanship and to promote it to the world.
The bags, that retail for approximately US$1,853 each, have, like their predecessors, become collectors’ items. They are sold through Nieman Marcus.