Maddalena Marconi Satin Clutch | Jeweled Black Feather Evening Purse

Posted on: Apr 21

Forget about the practicalities. This satin clutch by Maddalena Marconi is simply a thing of beauty.

Its Italian pedigree shows in the design, which is dramatic without being ostentatious. The elements could have so easily been overworked, but this purse is styled with stunning restraint. A ring of Swarovski crystals pops against the black satin finish. Black feathers emerge from this jeweled center, like a starburst or fireworks.

But it'd be remiss of me not to mention this evening purse's limitations. The slim lines make it ideal for hand-held carrying, but impractical for carrying all but absolute essentials. There's a slip pouch, but it's so small it seems like a mere token gesture.

The absence of a shoulder strap is also notable. Perhaps I'm simply spoiled by more modern designs which favor tuckaway chains, but the addition of a shoulder strap would give this clutch a more versatile appeal.

For all its shortcomings, that breathtaking design is difficult to ignore. And at $498, it's not over-the-top for a limited edition purse.