The Gucci Indy is a true A-lister’s It-bag. Since its creation in 2007, Hollywood stars and famous singers have proudly shown-off their oversized Indy bag, such as Kylie Minogue, Jennifer Lopez, Mischa Barton and Desperate Housewife Eva Longoria.
The bag actually comes in three different sizes, the oversized, large-top handle and mini and versions. Since its launch over two seasons ago, the bag now gets a mini-makeover each season.
The Rolls Royce of Handles
One of the most unique features of this bag is its handle—inspired by the steering wheels of vintage sports cars and Gucci’s own Hobo bag from the 1950s. This heavy hardware is made from beech wood, covered in leather and adorned with 2 Gucci logo-engraved metal plates.
The bag’s most distinguishing features from a distance are the long leather tassels, and the leather, metal or plexiglass plates, attached to each corner of the bag. There are 8 in total, 2 on each corner. With the added embellishments and steering-wheel handle, the bag is heavier than most, causing some bloggers to question its practicality and health implications.
The Gucci Indy - the Heavy-weight Bag
Says Bagsnob.com, “it is one of the hardest bags to carry on your arm, that handle is solid and cuts right into your bone and did I mention HEAVY??” However, there is an additional detachable shoulder strap, which the likes of Mischa Barton and the Pussycat Doll’s Melody Thornton have been happy to use. According to one blogger, Mikki, on Bagsnob, despite all the fervor over its weight, her Gucci Indy is “a lot lighter” than her Chloé Paddington bag. One the same site, fellow blogger Louise adds that although it is a little heavy, “it is a beautiful bag which attracts a ridiculous amount of attention.”
Interestingly, according to the Australian magazine, Shop Til You Drop, in its article “Why is this bag $3695” Gucci’s advertising campaign for the Indy bag in 2007/2008 was the fashion house’s first ever project devoted to just one must-have accessory.
Gucci Indy Bag Styles
The silver metallic version of the Indy is particularly popular, as it is not as polished or mirrored as many metallics, instead having a more muted, slightly rougher appearance.
Several Gucci Indy versions are currently available at Saks; with a new arrival, the Gucci Indy Satchel as part of the fall 2008 collection, priced at $1850. This striking bag is made from the signature Gucci fabric, with bronze metallic handle and tassel trim. The larger Gucci Indy retails at $2490, and the smaller mini top-handle at $1395.
Iconic Designer Bags
The Gucci Indy is still very much a new-kid-on-the-block when it comes to classic handbags but is sure to join the ranks of iconic purses such as the Fendi Baguette, Chanel 2.55 and the elusive Hermès Birkin, in years to come.
Hire a Gucci Indy Bag
If you want to give this beautiful bag a test drive then consider a weekly or monthly handbag rental from one of the ever growing designer handbag for hire companies worldwide. Major players include Bagborroworsteal (USA), Handbag Hire HQ (UK) or Love Me and Leave Me (Australia). Bagborroworsteal has some truly gorgeous Gucci Indy handbags for hire, including the popular silver metallic version, avaiable for rent at only £66 per week (approximately $130) for members, or £98 (approximately $200) for non members. These Indy bags are in high demand so be prepared to join a waiting list.
