The Fringe Handbag that Started it All

Who would’ve thought that a handbag that’s been criticized over and over as Cousin Itt’s twin would launch one of this decade’s major fashion trends?

It’s easy to see why the Prada Napa Fringe Hobo made a lot of people initially recoil back in repulsion: the shaggy fringes already made it look like a hairy animal but the vertical placement of the fringes was what took it to a whole new level of horror.

The Prada Napa Fringe Hobo

Backed by its heavyweight luxury brand name, the Prada fringe handbag made its fashion debut in the spring of 2007 despite the unfortunate resemblance. And what a grand debut it was: popular fashion icons from Victoria Beckham to Mary Kate Olsen were soon photographed with the Napa Fringe Hobo in the nook of their arms, catapulting the bag to “must have” status and prompting legions of fans to scramble for the sought-after accessory that was once regarded as hideous.

Victoria Beckham toting her Prada fringe handbag

Fast forward to 2009 and fringe handbags are still all the rage. While the Prada version still retains its exorbitant 3000-dollar price tag, many styles of this fashion trend have thankfully been created for bag lovers who don’t have the same purse expense allowance as VB.

One great version of this trend is the Cleobella Alive Fringe Tote. Costing half of what the Prada costs on sale, the Cleobella features an equally versatile design that lets you take it anywhere: a night out with friends, coffee with the girls or even just a trip to the grocery store.

Shop for the Cleobella Alive Fringe Tote at Shopbop.com

This tote is also just as roomy as the Prada – the inside has multiple compartments for all your belongings and a top zipper closure keeps them secure. The braided tassels on the sides and handles give this bag a low-key vibe, yet the rich camel color and the quality pebbled leather help keep its sophistication and elegance.

The interesting part about this bag is the chunky layering of the fringes. Cleobella’s different take on the usual wispy fringe detail makes this fringe handbag stand out from the rest. And best of all? It doesn’t make you want to pet your own purse or remind you of an Addams family extended family member.