While most fashion houses this spring have been capitalising on the Year of the Horse with equine inspired collections, McQueen are taking inspiration from aquatic life instead. Though the Manta bag debuted as part of the brand’s SS10 ‘Plato’s Atlantis’ collection, this new era marks the first dedicated campaign for the silhouette.
Shot by esteemed photographer Tim Walker, the campaign imagery is completely submerged under water — the natural habitat of the manta ray from which the bag takes its name. With surfacing air bubbles, flowing tresses and swirling skirts, the imagery captures the arresting power of life under water, in which movement and stillness collide. Though the bag is obviously the focal point — representing the clash between natural and urban — the iconic McQueen skull print is also on display in the form of a skirt, paying homage to other famed pieces from McQueen’s archival collections aside from the Manta bag.
As for the bag itself, the form is based on the manta ray’s fins. Both soft and sculptural, the fins are a study in the clash between natural and manufactured, softness and sturdiness. Crafted as a geometric form in supple leather, the Manta bag represents these same dichotomies, the line between chaos and calm that McQueen’s designs toe so effortlessly.
The campaign highlights a minimalist colour capsule of soft black leather, startling red and (HUNGER’s favourite) metallic gunmetal black, so the beauty of the bag’s form shines through. If, however, you’re hoping zhuzh up your new accessory with a little more edge, there are bag charms available in pearl, crystal and chandelier, although there’s always the option to tie your Skull Scarf around the handles if you’re really leaning into the indie-sleaze revival. Shop the collection here.
- WriterLucy Wragg
- Image CreditsMcQueen
