BURO 24/7 MALAYSIA PRESENTS
The Buro fashion team talks personal style, and this season's Loewe Gate bag
Get the Gate
Senior Fashion Writer, Joan Kong, and Fashion Writer, Stephanie Boey, on fashion trends of the moment, and what makes an It-bag
Think of this year's It-bag thus far and straw basket bags in its various shapes might immediately come to mind. But while these woven arm candy reign on our Instagram feeds (for now), soft and supple leather bags will always remain a classic favourite that's worth the investment. Enter the Gate bag, Loewe creative director Jonathan Anderson's modern-day take on the saddle bag that's an It-bag in the making.

First introduced on the Loewe Spring/Summer 2018 runway, the Gate is named after the side leather latch detail that's held by a metal hinge on the bag. Like the other signature Loewe bags before it such as the Puzzle and Hammock, the Gate is crafted with the finest leather by the house's artisans in Madrid. But what sets this bag apart from the rest is its distinctive rounded design and the knotted front belt, under which the front flap is tucked. Slide the flap open and the bag reveals equally refined details—a luxurious suede lining, and sleek partitions that will keep your belongings organised.
(Left) Stephanie carrying the Black-and-Pecan Gate Small bag; (Right) Joan carrying the Midnight Blue Gate Mini bag
At Milan and Paris Fashion Week this past March, we already spotted the likes of Irene Kim and Bryanboy carrying the Gate bag, and if that's any indication of the makings of an It-bag, you can expect to see more of it the next season. While design and craftsmanship are some components to consider, the Gate bag has got another unspoken requirement—versatility—down pat. Available in three sizes—mini, small and in the form of a tote, Joan definitely took a liking to the cross-body options. "Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you that my love for mini slings bags knows no bounds. I love to keep things fuss-free as I'm always on the move, and the compact size is perfect for my essentials. The small size is great too, if I'm looking to size up, whether for a lunch date or while running errands." Stephanie concurs, saying: "Cross-body bags are my cup of tea—they're convenient, and you can pair them with almost any outfit! The saddle shape is a classic, and this season, it's very trendy too."

We took the Gate bags out on a day of exploring a new part of town, paired here with some of our favourite fashion items of the moment.
Joan carrying the Red Gate Top-Handle bag
On her favourite trend of the moment
"I have always been into denim jackets—they lend a touch of rugged cool, and can be worn with almost any outfit. But recently, I've been trying out different denim washes and colours to give my all-blue outerwear closet a breath of fresh air, and this oversized white piece is perfect." — Joan
Joan carrying the Black-and-Pecan Gate Small bag
DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE

Joan: Trendy and laidback, with a polished finish.

Stephanie: Colourful and quirky, with a hint of vintage flair.
ON HOW THEIR STYLES HAVE CHANGED

Joan: "My passion for fashion saw me trying out different trends since my teenage years (hit or miss, that's another story), but after years of experimenting, I can honestly say that while style comes first, comfort is equally as important. There's no point looking stylish when you don't feel at ease."

Stephanie: "I definitely don't follow short-lived trends as blindly as I used to. Becoming comfortable in my own skin has taught me what works best with my body type, and that classics never die."
Stephanie carrying the Midnight Blue Gate Mini bag
On her favourite trend of the moment
"Pleats add texture and movement to a garment—adding a spring to your step. I have an affinity to tight, micro pleats for its elongating effect, a neat trick I learned, standing at a petite 5"3." — Stephanie
(Left) Stephanie carrying the Midnight Blue Gate Small bag; (Right) The Black-and-Pecan Gate Small bag
The Loewe Gate bags come in Black-and-Pecan, Midnight Blue, and Red colours this season, and are now available at the Loewe Pavilion KL store.

Click here for more info.
Credits
Photography: Lok Chee Wei
Art direction: Yi Suen Chong
Hairstylist and makeup artist: Ling Chong
Talents: Joan Kong and Stephanie Boey

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