Bag Whore: Jimmy Choo Ally

My affinity for black, leather bags knows no bounds (nor are their limits to my lingerie addiction—so if you’re ever questioning what to buy me…), and latest on the bag whore radar is the Jimmy Choo Ally shoulder bag.

It’s black, for starters. Pebbled leather—no, designer pebbled leather—too, so it already fits the bill. It’s the perfect size for toting around necessities (wallet, business cards, car key, Kevyn Aucoin lip liner, lip balm, blotting papers, Altoids, black ballpoint pen) as well as the ideal shape for any occasion, day or night. Nothing beats a classic shoulder bag: it’s the epitome of gentlewoman chic, in my opinion. To keep things fresh, however, subtle details are paramount. An asymmetrical flap, highlighted by smooth, gold hardware, keeps classic from being too prim and proper. It’s structured, but has allowance for some slouchiness for a je ne sais quoi, cool factor.

But it’s the tongue-and-cheek handcuff strap that just catches you off-guard ever so slightly. Anything vaguely kinky in reference is typically written off as cheap kitsch, but this! This was done right: the Jimmy Choo Ally is for the woman in a tailored le smoking or skirt-suit at the office, and wears a full Agent Provocateur or Bordelle set underneath. Unabashedly kinky once you realize after that double take, but because executed with utmost restraint (pun totally intended), deserves appreciation. (We’re talking both the bag and the woman, here.)