2023 marks the 20th anniversary of a Mulberry icon: the Bayswater. A definitive bag of the early noughties, today it continues to be one of Mulberry’s most loved styles, synonymous with the brand’s Made to Last ethos.
The Bayswater has remained a timeless piece despite changing trends. It embodies Mulberry’s focus on understated luxury and practicality, making it a top seller among both new and pre-owned bags. Even those who purchased the bag two decades ago still adore and use it, cementing its status as an icon.
Named after a London neighbourhood, the Bayswater quickly became popular with fashionistas in the 2000s. Its celebrity fans include Sienna Miller, Alexa Chung, Rihanna, and Kate Moss, whose personal Bayswater was featured in the V&A exhibition “Bags: Inside Out” in 2020. The bag has also made appearances in pop culture, such as in the original Gossip Girl. In recent years, a new generation has discovered Y2K fashion, leading to increased interest in the heritage Bayswater. These pre-loved bags can be found through The Mulberry Exchange, an initiative that promotes circular economy and gives new life to old pieces.
Mulberry continues to look to the future with fresh takes on the classic. As part of the 20th anniversary, three new styles are introduced: the compact East/ West Bayswater, a distinctly Mulberry take on the noughties renaissance; the North/South Bayswater Tote, a go-anywhere shoulder bag; and the contemporary Zipped Bayswater Tote, a roomy hold-all that is adaptable thanks to its multi- zip detailing. Other newness for the season includes a poppy palette of Geranium Pink, Acid Green, and Pigment Blue. The Mini Bayswater is reimagined with a set-for-summer attitude, handmade in Raffia.
The campaign, starring new and pre-loved styles from the Bayswater family, was shot by Ronan McKenzie, styled by Eliza Conlon, and features personalities who reflect the Mulberry spirit including Lily McMenamy, Alva Claire, and Laura Morgan. Launching May 10th, the campaign breaks the fourth wall, capturing honest moments between the subject and image makers behind the camera in a series of uplifting short videos.
