Since Francesca Bellettini joined Saint Laurent in 2013, the company’s sales have increased six-fold under her leadership. Bellettini was recently promoted to deputy CEO of Kering, a luxury French goods company, on July 18, 2023. This remarkable growth has solidified Saint Laurent’s position as a leading player in luxury ready-to-wear, but it didn’t stop there. The brand also steadily built an ultra-successful handbag program to match its prestigious reputation.
The YSL Icare Maxi, a coveted bag of 2022, had its moment in the spotlight (Read: Bag Trends Creating a Buzz in 2023). Initially making waves during its debut on the arm of YSL brand ambassador Zoë Kravitz, it quickly became a must-have for luxe lovers. However, as we delve into its current status in 2023, it becomes apparent that the Icare Maxi’s reign as an ‘it’ bag may have been short-lived…
Image courtesy: Vogue
The ‘It’ bag of 2022
Not only is the YSL Icare Maxi associated with its strong celebrity following, but its allure also stems from its laid-back luxe design and distinctive details. It is impossible to ignore the large light bronze-toned YSL logo that is prominently displayed on the front of the tote. This bold, oversized hardware is not one to go unnoticed. Crafted entirely from supple and soft carré-quilted lambskin leather, the bag exudes a chic appeal while maintaining a contemporary and relaxed aesthetic.
Image courtesy: @nachopolo
And then there’s the size of the bag – it certainly lives up to its maxi name! Designed with the modern woman in mind, this luxurious catch-all tote measures a substantial 22.8 x 16.9 x 3.1 inches. As a result, the bag serves as an ideal companion for daily errands, as well as travel. It’s spacious enough to accommodate all your essentials and then some – you could comfortably carry your toddler without the need for a stroller! There is no doubt that its versatility and practicality make it highly desirable.
Image courtesy: @hello_catwalk_city
The Peak in Price
Prices for luxury handbags have soared over the last few years, and YSL bags are no exception. And guess which bag took a significant hit? You guessed it – the Icare Maxi. It made its debut at $3,990 in 2022, but once YSL realized it was a hit, the fashion house raised the price tag. In May 2023, this oversized accessory endured yet another price increase, spiking it to $4,900.
Image courtesy: @ianvazquez
So, what does this price jump mean for the bag’s desirability? With the YSL Icare Maxi now reaching the $5,000 price bracket, higher expectations naturally come into play. As a result, owning the latest ‘it’ bag is no longer enough. Luxe lovers want to make sure they are getting their money’s worth by prioritizing craftsmanship, quality, and timeless style.
Image courtesy: @leoniehanne
Therefore it comes as no surprise that fashion enthusiasts are now dissecting every inch of this enormous bag, and weighing its hefty price tag against its features, design, exclusivity, and long-term value. After all, investing in luxury is no joke, and the YSL Icare Maxi needs to prove it’s not just a passing trend. So, as the Icare Maxi continues to reach for the stars in terms of price, buyers are demanding more. They want durability that can withstand daily use, functionality that suits their busy lives, and a design that transcends fleeting fashion trends.
Image courtesy: @bela
Along Came the Suede
The YSL Icare seemingly lost some of its initial buzz, and the bag is no longer saturating our Instagram feeds as frequently. In fact, it seems to have taken a step back from the spotlight. With only one colorway, one leather, and one size available, it limits bag lovers to a single style. Simply put, once you have it, you don’t need another option.
However, YSL recently introduced a new fabrication of the Icare Maxi to shake things up. Crafted from beige Nubuck suede, this lighter hue and soft fabric combination offer a different aesthetic. Currently available in boutiques and online, this suede variation comes with a further elevated price tag of $5,600. Although this new iteration may elevate the bag’s appeal for some, there are concerns about its durability. We can’t help but worry about the wear and tear that may come with the light suede material, and let’s not even get started on the dreaded color transfer!
Image courtesy: @iamhearte
Summer Ready Raffia
In another strategic move to rejuvenate the Icare Maxi’s allure, Saint Laurent has recently unveiled its latest raffia rendition. This all-new summer-ready variation is crafted fully in raffia and features the classic elements including the oversized YSL hardware. The raffia adds an even more relaxed feel to this already casual and carefree tote – ideal for vacations.
Image courtesy: @vitalysaks
While this new variation of the Icare Maxi is yet to be released, we certainly expect it to be a big hit for summer 2024. It is reported that Icare in Raffia is currently available to preorder for $5,300, and will be launching in November this year.
Are Big Bags Still Big Business?
In the world of bags, jumbo silhouettes are still incredibly big right now. Whether it’s an oversized shoulder bag, a spacious tote, or a slouchy hobo, these enormous accessories make a bold statement, and more importantly offer unrivaled functionality. YSL has certainly leaned into big bags and embraced this trend wholeheartedly. The brand recently expanded its collection of luxe oversized pieces. With the launch of the Es Giant Travel bag, and Jamie 4.3 – catering to those seeking a luxe yet functional travel bag, and with the latest Icare release in the suede variation – YSL continues to go large.
Image courtesy: @allthingsrionaaa
However, amid the rise of big bags, the oversized nature of the YSL Icare has its limitations. While this bag serves its purpose perfectly for day-to-day errands and travel, its oversize dimensions deem it likely unsuitable for evening events and formal occasions. Those seeking a versatile bag that transitions from day to night, might not find the Icare accommodating.
Image courtesy: @shannewart
Moreover, in this era of mini bag popularity, a large bag can be a tough sell. There are still plenty of luxe lovers who remain loyal to the mini and even micro bag trend, to the exclusion of others.
Has this ‘It’ Bag had its Heyday?
While the YSL Icare Maxi is far from forgotten, it undoubtedly has experienced a shift in its status as a must-have bag. The initial hype and desirability surrounding it were fueled by its prominent presence on social media and celebrity-filled endorsements. Of course, its laid-back design, and generous size offering both functionality and style, attracted many shoppers. However, as fashion trends evolve and consumers seek versatility within their handbag collections, the Icare Maxi has faced some challenges.
Image courtesy: @leoniehanne
The significant increase in its price, coupled with the limited options in terms of color, leather choices, and sizes, has left YSL fans with fewer alternatives. Furthermore, although oversized bags remain popular in the fashion industry, they may not be appropriate for every event or setting. Despite this, big bags are expected to retain their position in 2023, and YSL Icare Maxi’s influence should not be overlooked.
Image courtesy: @iamhearte
However, YSL’s introduction of the Nubuck suede beige offering suggests that we may see further exploration of the Icare Maxi in the near future. This could include the release of additional new colorways, variations in leather, or perhaps even different sizes. Only time will tell.
SAINT LAURENT Lambskin Quilted Maxi Icare Shopping Tote Black
What are your thoughts on the YSL Icare Maxi? Would you still consider adding this oversized tote to your collection?
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Updated: August 8th, 2023
Comments
5 Responses to “The YSL Icare Maxi: Do We Still Care About the Icare?”
Still love mine. Don’t care if it’s a “must have” or not.
I’ve been lusting over this bag forever and I still want it! Don’t care about the trends.
I have ICARE BLACK BAG…WOANTED BEIGE BAG BUT FOUND OUT ITS SUEDE AND NOT REGULAR LEATHER…DONT WANT IT NOW! UPKEEP WOULD BE A NIGHTMERE!
I think this big will be huge this summer ..
I have the YSL Maxi handbag. In love ❤️ I paired it with the Jill Saunder square toe slingback in GOLD.. BEYOND FABULOUS 👌