Fashionable individuals will continue to include this iconic handbag in their collections for many years ahead.

      Let me bring you back for a moment. It's September 2020, fashion shows are paused, and brands are unveiling their spring/summer 2021 collections online. As you browse through images of models showcasing sharp tailoring, monochromatic hues, and well-considered silhouettes, your mouse hovers over a photo of a model holding a sleek black bag under her arm. It’s the new Saint Laurent handbag poised to make waves in the luxury market.

      Five years after its introduction, the Le 5 à 7, which started as a chic shoulder bag, has undergone numerous transformations, with various shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes added to the collection. It's evident that, in all its iterations, the minimalist design and subtle elegance have firmly established this bag as a timeless investment.

      The Le 5 à 7 stands as a hallmark of Anthony Vaccarello’s leadership as Creative Director of Saint Laurent. The original shoulder bag features a refined silhouette, a small rectangular shape, and a single short handle designed to maintain its sleek profile. While the 'Yves' was omitted from the brand name during Hedi Slimane's era, the YSL logo remains essential branding—a tribute to its luxurious heritage—and it takes center stage here, serving as the closure for the Le 5 à 7. It swiftly became the must-have bag to carry. Unlike other trendy items that quickly fade away, this bag was crafted to endure.

      Saint Laurent is a brand revered for creating iconic handbags. Think of the lasting allure of the Sac du Jour, LouLou, and Y bag—names often found on lists of the best designer bags. The Le 5 à 7 seamlessly joins this esteemed group.

      Created to be the perfect evening accessory, the original Le 5 à 7 shoulder bag is roomy enough for essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and lip balm. Its sleek aesthetic and sophisticated charm quickly made it a favored choice for fashion enthusiasts day or night. The fashion community's excitement for this shoulder bag quickly prompted the brand to expand its offerings, introducing a variety of finishes, from patent to raffia, and a spectrum of colors to cater to diverse tastes. As these variations continued to be featured in handbag collections globally, it was clear the enthusiasm was here to stay. Consequently, the brand adapted the style to align with evolving trends. Straps were lengthened, interiors made more spacious, and the Le 5 à 7 evolved into more than just one iconic bag—it transformed into a collection of similarly luxurious designs under a unified name.

      The classic version remains a go-to choice, frequently observed on the arms of celebrities and fashion followers alike. Unsurprisingly, a smaller variant emerged, offering a playful twist in its compact form for those seeking an even more streamlined look for their essentials. The newer, more spacious Supple version adds extra depth to the bag, and as its name implies, offers a more relaxed look and feel, making it perfect for daily use. The Supple collection includes three size options: large, small, and baby (adorably small). The Bea is a broader tote that maintains the recognizable minimalist design and YSL closure, while providing ample space for belongings—ideal for carrying your laptop, children’s items, or travel essentials as hand luggage. Lastly, the Boho features a more casual vibe with a longer strap and bucket shape, ready to carry your daily necessities and more.

      If timeless, understated, and enduring style are essential criteria for your ideal handbag, you'll want to keep exploring the Who What Wear-approved variations of the Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 bag.

      Le 5 à 7 Style Notes: The classic Le 5 à 7 is available in two sizes: classic and mini.

      Classic size: 9 x 6.2 x 2.5 inches. Features: Suede lining, interior zipped pocket. Materials: Calfskin leather, patent leather, raffia, croc-embossed shiny leather.

      Mini size: 7.5 x 4.5 x 1.8 inches. Features: Suede lining, card slot. Materials: Calfskin leather, patent leather, raffia.

      Shop Le 5 à 7:

      - Saint Laurent Women's Le 5 à 7 in Smooth Leather in Noir

      - Saint Laurent Women's Mini Le 5 à 7 in Smooth Leather in Blanc Vintage

      Gold and cream create a timeless combination.

      - Saint Laurent Women's Le 5 à 7 in Crocodile-Embossed Shiny Leather in Noir. The croc texture enriches your outfits.

      - Saint Laurent Women's Le 5 à 7 in Patent Leather in Dark Red Wine. The burgundy shade is captivating.

      - Saint Laurent Women's Le 5 à 7 Mini in Raffia in Natural and Brick. This raffia version is top of my spring wish list.

      Le 5 à 7 Supple Style Notes: The Supp