HANDBAGS

Leading American brand Coach has introduced Legacy, a modern collection inspired by timeless styles in its archives.

Bonnie Cashin, Coach's creative director in the 1960s, revolutionised the handbag industry with her imagination and groundbreaking designs.

She was the first to use industrial hardware on handbags when she designed the turnlock. Inspired by the toggle securing the roof of her convertible, the turnlock is a staple in Coach design, and a key element to the new Legacy collection.

The collection showcases iconic silhouettes updated with a fresh, modern spin, as well as new designs that take their cues from classic Coach styles.

Core colours include carnelian red, cobalt blue, emerald green and sunflower yellow. These shades were inspired by the vivid palette Cashin introduced in the early 1960s _ a new approach to leatherware that revolutionised the handbag industry.

Many of Legacy's colours and effects were inspired by this vintage, including the colour-blocking and colour-tipping details. Though modern in feel, they were actually borrowed from contrast bindings on several Cashin styles. Even the new cognac hue is meant to evoke Coach's original British tan.

Legacy handbags are fashioned in simple but elegant shapes and incorporate classic Coach design elements like tubular handles, leather-bound edges and contoured strap anchors. Heritage Coach hardware _ harness buckles, oversized metal zippers, turnlockers and dog-leash clips _ give the pieces an authentic finish.

Those inspired by timeless styles and reinterpreted with a modern sensibility are the Saddle bag (updated from the 1973 version), the Penny bag (updated from the 1980 Dinky bag), the Amanda Flap (updated from the 1975 Pony Express bag), and the Duffle (inspired by the iconic 1973 version).

New silhouettes include the Tanner Tote, the Rory Satchel, the Flap Carryall and the Candance Carryall.

Legacy accessories include several wallets such as the Strappy, with an exterior turnlock pocket reminiscent of a Cashin original, and the Double Zip Accordion, featuring an extra compartment for a phone. They also encompass a range of accessories including the new Universal Case for tablets and e-readers.

Coach Legacy 2012 Collection is available at Coach counters and outlets at CentralWorld, Central Chidlom, CentralPlaza Lardprao, Siam Paragon and The Emporium. Call 02-641-5939.