Sarah Jessica Parker has ignited a fresh fashion debate after appearing at the Booker Prize ceremony in London carrying a conspicuously open Fendi handbag. The actor, known for setting style trends through her Sex and the City character Carrie Bradshaw, was photographed with a purple sequinned bag that boldly displayed its contents to the world.
The Controversial New Trend
According to Vogue magazine, this was no accidental fashion mishap but rather a deliberate style choice. The publication recently posed the question gripping fashion circles: "Can Sarah Jessica Parker make the wide-open bag trend happen?" The fashion bible described the look as both "chic and insouciant" while acknowledging it's deeply "polarising" among style commentators.
The trend isn't limited to Parker's Fendi accessory alone. Fashion observers have spotted similar gaping handbag designs on runways from prestigious houses including Loewe, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, suggesting this might be more than a passing whim.
SJP's Proven Trendsetting Power
If anyone possesses the influence to normalise an unconventional fashion statement, it's Sarah Jessica Parker. Through her iconic character Carrie Bradshaw and her own red-carpet choices, she has previously transformed numerous accessories into must-have items.
Her track record includes popularising:
- Name necklaces
- Oversized corsages
- Substantial duvet coats
- Maison Margiela Tabi bow pumps
The JW Anderson pigeon clutch she carried in And Just Like That quickly sold out, demonstrating her continuing power to drive consumer behaviour in the fashion world.
Practical Concerns and British Realities
Despite SJP's formidable trendsetting credentials, significant practical objections challenge the open handbag movement. The most immediate concern involves the typically private nature of women's handbag contents.
As Guardian columnist Emma Beddington observed, while some might carry photogenic items like Dries Van Noten lipstick or minimalist-covered novels, most handbags contain more mundane and personal items. Her own inventory includes practical but unglamorous essentials like foam earplugs, wooden forks, and emergency snacks.
The trend faces particular challenges in British contexts compared to Parker's native New York. In UK cities like London or York, an open handbag would likely attract well-meaning citizens repeatedly pointing out the apparent oversight, creating constant social interruptions.
Beyond social awkwardness lies the fundamental question of whether women truly want their personal possessions on public display. As Beddington notes, "Most handbags contain darker secrets than a confession booth," suggesting that some aspects of feminine life are meant to remain private.
The debate continues as fashion observers watch whether this controversial trend will gain traction beyond the red carpet and into mainstream style.
