Since Miuccia Prada took the reigns of the Italian fashion house that shares her name in 1978, footwear, accessories and eyewear have all joined its womenswear line that's celebrated for ladylike dressing. Building on her grandfather's leather goods heritage, the label's elegant and chic minimalist style is now represented across a collection of structured satchels, messenger bags and cross-body designs. Expect to see the Prada mini saffiano bag in luxurious leathers and an array of color-pop styles.
The Prada Shoulder Bag Buying Guide
Prada’s timeless elegance is now represented across the Italian fashion house’s collection of women’s shoulder bags. Discover styles like the Cahier in a boxy design, or the Prada Tessuto, which is made from nylon for a durable finish. Look out for simple logo plaque styles found in patented Saffiano leather with chain straps, as well as micro box bags, unusual prints and cartoon designs. Ahead, take a look at our Prada shoulder bag buying guide, which will help you decide on the styles that suit you best and how to care for them properly.
The Most Wanted Prada Shoulder Bags
Prada Tessuto Shoulder Bags
Crafted from nylon for a robust finish, the Tessuto shoulder bag also comes in zip pouch, cross-body and backpack versions, all complete with the brand’s signature logo plaque. The Tessuto is ideal for the office or your off-duty ensembles.
Prada Cahier Shoulder Bags
Available in a boxy shoulder bag or tote, the Prada Cahier is ultra-roomy and structured, so all your essentials are easy to find. Colors include white, black, red, brown and multicolor, with a variety of sizes available too. It’s also finished with concertina sides and gold-toned hardware.
Prada Vela Shoulder Bags
Made from hard-wearing nylon, the Prada Vela strikes a fine balance between practicality and sophistication. Perfect for busy days, Prada’s iconic Vela features a raft of pockets, zip fastenings together with the signature logo plaque for a luxury finish.
The Prada Shoulder Bag Sizing Guide
Prada’s shoulder bags are available in numerous sizes, with specific silhouettes on hand in a variety of shapes and aesthetics. If you’re looking for a medium-sized bag, consider the White Cahier Shoulder Bag that measures roughly 20CM wide, 14.5CM tall and 7CM deep. Or the slightly smaller Prada Diagramme Bag comes in at 20CM wide, 11CM tall and 5CM deep.
Prefer a more diminutive handbag? The Black Paneled Nylon and Leather Mini Bag may be a better choice. This measures roughly 19CM wide, 10CM tall and 4CM deep.
If you prefer a larger style for your essentials, the generously sized Prada Fabric Bucket Bag measures 22CM high, 25CM wide and 11CM deep.
How To Care For Your Prada Shoulder Bag
Authentic Prada bags are often made from the highest quality calf leather. The below care instructions are based on this type of material.
Step 1: Remove any dirt build-up by wiping down with a cleaner made specifically for calf leather. Some Prada bags feature metal-plated buckles or chains, so be extremely careful when cleaning your bag.
Step 2: Every other day, it’s worth giving your bag a quick sweep using a soft, dry cloth. There’s no need to spend any more than a couple of minutes doing this, as this will help preserve the appearance of the leather.
Step 3: To prevent your leather Prada bag from drying, flaking and wrinkling, it’s worth moisturizing the leather using a conditioner. Apply the conditioner using a soft cloth and wipe gently all over. We recommend using mink oil or neats foot oil. Leave on for roughly 10 minutes then wipe off any excess. Leave to dry in a ventilated room. It’s best to condition once a month to keep the leather looking shiny.
Step 4: Storing your Prada bag correctly can help maintain its shape. Keep it within its original dust bag and fill it with stuffing such as butter paper. Avoid using newspaper, as this can stain the leather. Store the dust-bagged item in its original box together with packets of silica gel so your Prada bag won’t get damp. Every two weeks, air your bag to prevent mold growth.
FAQ
- Are Prada bags worth it?
Founded as a luxury leather goods store in 1913 by brothers Mario and Martino, the Italian fashion house has been around for a very long time. Prada bags are real forever pieces, staples that have long been idolized worldwide for their simple designs. But Prada handbags aren’t lacklustre, quite the opposite. It’s impossible not to fall for the lustrous silhouettes, crafted from super-soft calf leather or Saffiano leather – the perfect choice for everyday use. Some are finished with Prada’s subtle gold logo on the front.
- Are Prada bags made in Italy?
Prada is formerly from Italy, from the city of Milan. The label was launched by Mario Prada and Martino Prada in 1913, as a leather goods store. Prada is now recognized as an Italian luxury fashion house. The label of your Prada bag will usually read “Prada Milano Made in Italy” across three lines.
- How can I spot a fake Prada bag?
Real Prada bags are crafted from the finest leather, usually calf or lambskin, which should feel soft and flexible to the touch. Counterfeit leather bags may look authentic from far away or in photos but it’s rigid and stiff to touch, often presenting a plastic-like odor. Be sure to check the description of the leather on the Authenticity Card that matches your Prada bag.