The result of these heavy, maladroit additions to leather bags is that it is not possible to clutter them up any further — the fashion for studded bags is surely coming to an end. So, sharp designers such as Miuccia Prada and Dolce & Gabbana have taken the logical next step and transferred all the rivets and studs to their clothing as well. The move is a vague nod to late-1970s and early-1980s punk.
The result, however, is about as convincing (and comfortable) a modern fashion statement as a 15th-century condottiere’s suit of armour would be. Are they giving us a new message? Leading the way forward? I think not. This new direction is as inelegant as, to use TS Eliot’s famous phrase, “a silk hat on a Bradford millionaire”. It looks like a reckless attempt to keep a lucrative thing going long after it has died.
Whether women will follow this perverse lead remains to be seen, but I fear the worst. After all, the two Italian labels spearheading the new approach are sure-fire trendsetters with huge and loyal followings, not least among fellow designers, many of whom copy their example. Only this coming season will reveal the full extent of future shock horror.