Fashion Test Drive: Ferragamo's Viva Bow Bag
Julia Gall reviews Ferragamo's Viva Bow Bag, a twist on a classic, for the latest iteration of Marie Claire's Fashion Test Drive.

At Marie Claire, we love to be the first to discover what will become the hottest accessories and looks for the upcoming season. But instead of simply identifying the latest It items, we’ve decided to go one step further. Welcome to Fashion Test Drive: our ongoing series where editors demo must-have pieces before they arrive in stores—and in your closet. Next up: Ferragamo's Viva Bow Bag.
Ferragamo Small Viva Bow Bag (opens in new tab)
The Viva Bow bag debuted hot on the heels of the Instagram-popular Viva (opens in new tab) shoes: the pointy-toed flats topped with a signature bow that we saw just about everywhere this year. The Viva line is a fresh take on the iconic bow-adorned Vara (opens in new tab) shoe, created by Fiamma Ferragamo in 1979. I know that's a lot to keep straight but stick with me here... While the Vara may have been a favorite of your mother or grandmother's, Creative Director Paul Andrew is set on converting next generation into bow-adorned fans of the brand. The Viva Bow bag is the latest offering and comes in several delicious colors, but we love the black for its pure functionality. We tried it in the small, but it is available one size up.
Let's Break Down the Facts
The bag is made up of super soft leather and retains a puffy shape that could honestly double as a pillow if you're in a pinch. The lack of structure feels really contemporary and fresh, especially from a brand revered for its classic and ladylike accessories.
It has flap with a magnetic snap that opens to reveal two separate compartments: one with a zip and one without. This is perfect for separating your wallet and your keys or hand sanitizer. No more digging around aimlessly!
Visually, one of the best features of the Viva Bow bag is the monochromatic hardware, also found on the Viva shoe. It literally will go with everything and not compete with your look or any jewelry you pair with it. The chain is long enough to wear crossbody during a day of running errands or on your shoulder for work, and easily tucks inside the bag if you want to rock it as oversized clutch on date night.
The Bottom Line
The Viva Bow bag straddles the delicate line of super trendy and very classic. The soft shape and tonal hardware brings it into 2020, but its signature Ferragamo bow keeps it forever relevant.
What to Wear with Your Viva Bow Bag
Chanel Coco Crush ring
Sorel Lennox Hiker Bootie
Tory Sport Tie-Dye French Terry Hoodie
Puma Suede Classic+ Sneakers
Women’s Vintage Modern High Rise Dungaree Short
Tod's Gommino Driving Shoe
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Julia Gall is the former Style Director at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability. Check her out at @juliasgall.
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