WORDS BY JOSEPH FURNESS
Back in the 00s, members of the Prada Cleo Bag clan were lionized; they were the pre-Insta influencers, so to speak. These Y2K style mavens were embracing an ahead-of-the-curve trend that incarnates fearlessness, flawlessness and femininity – one that’s returning to our post-lockdown lives to urge us to unleash our inner divas, schemers and hustlers.
Traditionally defined by its crescent shape, close shoulder strap and enamelled metal triangular logo, the retro-style bags are easy to spot and even easier to pull off. But, what size Cleo bag should you get? How should you style your Cleo bag? How should you care for your Cleo bag? These are all important questions – ones we recently asked the most prominent members of the neo Cleo Bag clan. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about Prada Cleo bag sizing, fit, styling and care.
Prada Cleo Bag: Sizing, Styling and Care Guide
Holly Pan (@hollyhpan)
Fashion blogger based in Washington D.C., United States wearing the Prada Cleo bag with flap
The Y2K style resurgence started in 2019 when hot pink, logos and nylon started trending again. Accordingly, Prada refreshed one of its most iconic 90s/00s designs – the Prada Cleo bag.
I first spotted the revitalized Cleo on Instagram; my first impression was that it was really cute; however, I wasn’t sold on the limited color options (black or white). I patiently waited for new colors to drop, and I’m so glad I did because the newer pastel colors are a lot more ‘me’.
Styling: I love how sophisticated the small Prada Cleo flap bag looks – it’s ideal for adding a polished touch to both casual and dressy outfits. Inspired by the bag’s aesthetic, I’ve opted for a look that’s polished, effortless and a lot of fun. It’s the sort of outfit I’ve been dying to wear after a year of sheltering at home.
To elaborate, I’ve layered a Prada Re-Nylon cape with a new season cutout turtleneck and an ink print skirt. My Prada loafers and Prada Cleo bag top things off to create an elegant fashion statement.
Sizing: Even though the Prada Cleo flap bag looks small, it’s big enough to hold all of my everyday necessities inside, including my card case, car keys, lipstick, makeup and sunglasses. However, when I tried to fit my iPhone 11 inside, I had to take out almost everything except my card case in order to close the magnetic flap. I wouldn’t recommend putting too much into the bag as this may cause the leather to stretch.
Care: The Cleo bag is created using brush leather – ergo, it’s tremendously easy to clean and super scratch resistant. Additionally, it’s remarkably easy to wipe away dust and fingerprints using a soft cloth.
When I’m not using my Prada Cleo bag, I store it in its original dust bag and tuck it between two structured bags so it stands upright. Don’t hang your Cleo using the shoulder strap as the leather will stretch due to excessive hanging.
Dimensions: 15.5cm height x 22cm width.
Prada Cleo Bag: Sizing, Styling and Care Guide
Natalia Verza (@mascarada.paris)
Architect and model based in Paris, France wearing the standard size Prada Cleo bag
Last year, I attended Prada’s Spring/Summer ‘21 digital show: the first collection designed in association with Raf Simons. When I spotted the Prada Cleo bag, I was super impressed by the way it completed each look it was worn with – it was the element that tied the ensemble together.
Subsequently, I was able to see the Cleo bag up close at a Prada pop-up store in Paris. From the moment I laid eyes on the real thing, I decided I had to have it; for some reason, it reminded me of two of my favorite creatives: Mies van der Rohe and Le Corbusier. It’s an unfussy investment piece that I’m sure to be wearing for the next 20 years or more.
Styling: It doesn’t matter what season it is, you’ll usually find me wearing white. White is fresh and brings out my best features; so, naturally, I opted for a white Prada bag. I’m glad I made this decision because the accessory literally works with everything.
Today, I’m wearing a colorful Prada look that puts the white Cleo bag at the centre of attention. Please do note that I don’t always wear my bag with fits like this, sometimes I wear my Prada Cleo bag with a simple white-shirt-and-jeans combo.
Sizing: I’m a huge fan of small bags: I think they’re really sophisticated and feminine. The Cleo is the perfect size as there’s enough room inside all of my essentials – viz. my big wallet, keys, iPhone, charger, sunscreen and mask.
I chose the classic Cleo bag without the adjustable strap since I really love the concept of wearing my bag close to my body. Nevertheless, I understand why people would opt for the cross-body version – it all depends on your preference and attitude towards fashion.
Care: I must admit that I was afraid to wear my Cleo bag at first because the white leather looked so perfect; but, I’ve been wearing my Cleo for months now, and it still looks brand new. I guess this is because the spazzolato leather is of the utmost quality. If I do notice a mark in the future, I plan to use a cloth, hot water and soap to remove it.
Dimensions: 22cm height x 27 cm width.
Prada Cleo Bag: Sizing, Styling and Care Guide
Oranicha (Proud) Krinchai (@proud_olives)
Singer, actress and model based in Bangkok, Thailand wearing the standard size Prada Cleo bag
When I virtually attended the Prada Spring/Summer 21 runway, the first thing that caught my attention was the Cleo bag; ever since, I’ve seen the bag everywhere. Needless to say, I’m a huge fan of the bag’s unique design and how it evokes nostalgia for the 2000s.
Styling: The Prada Cleo bag is sleek and simple, making it perfect for a casual day out. I plan to wear this accessory with Y2K ensembles that are girly yet sophisticated. But, to be honest, you can’t really go wrong with this bag because it works with any type of style.
Sizing: I’m not a fan of big bags; I only need a bag that can carry my wallet, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, lip balm, lipstick and keys inside. Thus, this small Cleo bag is ideal for me. I also think it works better on women who are of smaller statures.
Care: It’s as simple as this: regularly cleaning your Prada Cleo bag will keep it in good condition. After every use, I wipe the bag down to make sure there are no stains, and I always keep it in its dust bag when I’m not using it.
Dimensions: 22cm height x 27 cm width.