Prada’s rhinestone-covered mini bag is the perfect accessory for the festive season, but it’ll set you back £1660 – so I managed to find an almost identical one that’s £1600 less
When it comes to the festive season, the more sparkle the better is usually my mantra. From sequin mini dresses to glittering jewellery, there’s no shortage of ways to bring some Christmas sparkle to your outfit.
For me, a bejewelled handbag is the perfect choice as it adds instant glamour to your look, even if all you’re wearing is jeans and a nice top. Although I’ve been eyeing Prada’s Satin Mini-Bag With Crystals for some time now, its £1660 price tag is far beyond my budget, which is why when I spotted Fiorelli’s satin and rhinestone-covered Gaia Shoulder Bag for £59, it was an instant must-have.
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The Fiorelli bag is the perfect alternative for anyone like me who’s been lusting after the Prada version but can’t afford quite such an extravagant splurge. Although there are of course some differences – the Fiorelli one doesn’t have the triangular branding or rhinestones on the back panel – the shape, size and design are otherwise almost identical.
Fiorelli’s Gaia Shoulder Bag has a curved shape inspired by iconic 90s styles which are trending right now, and is covered in light-catching crystals on three sides of the bag. Underneath the rhinestones is a thick black satin material, with the bag holding its shape beautifully even when there’s nothing inside.
You can choose from both black and pink rhinestone-covered versions of the Fiorelli Gaia bag, or you can snap it up in a block pink or leopard print pattern.
It has a zip closure to keep everything securely stored, as well as an internal zipped compartment that’s just the right size for things like your phone or money. The faux leather strap is also the perfect length so it can be either tucked under your arm or hang from your elbow without getting in the way.
I manage to fit my phone, wallet, lipstick and large bunch of keys inside with no issues, making it the ultimate bag for nights out, evenings or even more casual daytime events that you want to bring a bit of sparkle to. It also just feels very expensive and high end, despite costing £1600 less than the Prada bag.
If you want a designer label without the major price tag, Karl Lagerfeld has the Evening Rhinestone Shoulder Bag available for £279. It has an unusual K-shaped design, with a faux leather and chain handle giving it a slightly edgier look.
Alternatively, Marks & Spencer’s Diamante Shoulder Bag is a bargain at £35. It has a less structure slouchy shape, and is made from faux leather rather than satin. It also has a buckle-fastening adjustable strap to make it fit your shoulder.
