3.1 by Phillip Lim Doctor’s Bag | Vintage Uptown Style Meets Rocker Chic in this Black Leather Handbag

Posted on: Dec 20

Phillip Lim shows his versatility as a designer with this contemporary take on a classic. The design of the 3.1 Doctor's Bag combines his minimalist approach with urban details, making it a decidedly downtown interpretation of an uptown style.

The vintage doctor's shape is accented with the modern brushed steel frame top. I particularly like the triangular steel detailing around the edges of the frame, and the way the heavy metal structure tops off the supple black leather. Multiple brass chains hang loose from a tab, giving the bag its rock-n-roll charm. The chains can also be pulled up and used as a shoulder strap.

The thick leather handle is held to the bag with large silver O-rings, which I find a little distracting to the bag's look. The oversized rings make the handle seem a little unnaturally placed, and their bigness is out of proportion with the comparatively more streamlined and subtle details.

The generously-sized main compartment is accented with leather side straps with silver buckles, which also distract slightly from the classic shape of the bag. Overall, the bag seems slightly overworked, but the quality of Phillip Lim's design still shines through. I can see it working for a woman with a more conservative wardrobe who is looking to add a little punch to her look. The 3.1 Doctor's Bag would give attitude to a classic black suit, and it would also provide a lovely contrast to a soft cocktail dress for evening.