Midnight and powder blue love.

A few days ago in comments, designer ella wondered why, with a blog devoted to bags, I'd chosen a pair of shoes for my icon. I answered in comments, but thought I'd post it here as well.

I originally searched for just the right bag for my icon. I had a very specific idea of the kind of thing I wanted, vintage preferably, a vintage illustration ideally. I surfed for hours (truly!) but nothing clicked. Then I found this, a vintage poster for Bally shoes. The color caught my eye immediately.

I loved the sweep of the garment (a coat?). I imagine it's one of those chic, ultra-feminine numbers that's fitted at the waist and flared at the hips, rather like Dior's beautiful and dramatic New Look.

I loved the movement implied in the position of her feet. Is she dancing?

I could easily imagine this woman standing at the railing of an ocean liner in days past, a luxurious fox stole draped around her shoulders as she gazes out over the water. Only a few hours at sea, she already misses her beau terribly, but she's looking forward to high adventure on her Grand Tour. Her luggage? Louis Vuitton, of course, her grandmother's old set purchased for her first trip abroad.

The color. The sweep of her coat. The movement in the position of her feet and of course, the very lady-like shoes themselves, sensible yet oh-so-feminine. All together, it's a midnight and powder blue peek into an elegant vintage world.

Today's bag: Lauren by Ralph Lauren hobo.