The Dior Saddle Bag made its first appearance in 1999 at the Spring/Summer 2000 runway show; courtesy of one, John Galliano. Almost instantly it became the ‘It’ bag. Once it made the arm of Carrie Bradshaw in season 5, episode 3, it was solidified gold. Everyone who was anyone grabbed up the Dior saddlebag. It put Dior accessory sales up by around 60%. And it didn’t stop there. 2006, John Galliano celebrates his 10th anniversary, being the creative director of Christian Dior. He decided to re-invent the look of the bag. 12 bags for 12 nations.
The bags were each designed around Galliano’s different inspirations over the years. They were amazing. And in 2007, they were done. They had run their course. Everyone had at least one; it was no longer elusive. Well, until now. The rise of the current 90’s/2000’s fashion trends has brought the saddlebag back with a vengeance. In fact, the Dior 2023 line was recently introduced featuring some of the most stunning saddlebags that ever were, and we have the top 8 here for you.
Black Dior Jardin d’Hiver
Jardin d’Hiver means winter garden. This bag embodies the symbolism of a winter garden to a tee. Looking at the stunning gold-tone embroidery against the black gives a feeling of night, with cold winds blowing and frost-bitten flowers. It mimics the look of a classic tapestry, which in itself is a textile art, like this bag.
The features of this bag include the saddle flap with magnetic ‘D’ stirrup closure. The shoulder strap has a gold ‘CD’ on each side, which can be exchanged out for different shoulder straps to change the look. And, of course, the Christian Dior jacquard across the front. It’s gorgeous, and sells for $4,000.00. This bag is sure to make a statement wherever you go.
Beige And Black Dior Oblique Jacquard
This is part of the men’s saddle collection. With its distinguished look and exchanging of the traditional shoulder strap for a leather-detailed jacquard strap; this bag is handsome. It has a classic saddle flap and magnetic closure. It is made to be worn as a crossbody bag, whether it’s on the front or back. The strap is adjustable for comfort and style.
It retails for $3,400.00 and you can even get the matching belt and shoes to complete the look. This is an absolutely stunning bag and would make a perfect addition to any man’s wardrobe. The leather detailing is beautiful and the bag itself is very roomy. If you’re looking for a bag that will last and that will be worth it in the long run, this is the one for you.
Black Grained Calfskin
There is no pretentious, fussy pattern to this saddle. It doesn’t need it. The grained texture look is a beautiful one, that can stand alone. Its classic simplicity exudes confidence and sophistication. It comes in a few different shades with Royal Blue Grained Calfskin being a newcomer this year. Another addition is the long shoulder strap.
Prior the saddle bag was meant to be worn on the shoulder, hugging tight to the under arm. The longer strap provides more versatility, allowing the owner to carry the bag in a variety of different ways.
Copper-Colored Sbalzo Calfskin with Rêve d’Infini Motif
This is an incredibly detailed and awe-inspiring work of art. Absolutely gorgeous, this drawing was made into a hand-pressed relief by artist Pietro Ruffo. He was inspired by the early years of Christian Dior traveling to foreign lands. It is then embossed into the soft, subtle calfskin giving this saddle a distinguished antique look. It has a thin interchangeable hand strap as well as a shoulder strap. This bag sells for $5,600.00.
Gray Mizza Embroidery
This exquisite handbag has an intricate, embroidered leopard motif with Christian Dior jacquard across the front. All gold hardware, magnetic clasp, and interchangeable strap. The leopard look fades in and out, but never has it been so beautifully embroidered before. This bag is so fun, and can be dressed up or worn on the go in any situation. $4,500.00.
