Marco De Vincenzo, the new Creative Director of Italy's Etro brand, launched his first bag — the Vela — in March. The ‘Vela,’ was developed with a sharp, defined silhouette and contours to "cut through the wind like a sail”, Vincenzo explained.

Vincenzo could use the metaphor to describe the speed with which he has dropped his sailboat’s anchor in Italian waters with this new creation: the Mini Vela Bag — brought to shore and stores, just three months later.

The Mini Vela is also defined by its essential and “sharp” forms and the innovative V-closure fastening featuring an articulated zipper with a chain and logo medallion.

The candy colors delight as a perfect jolt of dopamine dressing, even against more neutral colors. The colors are clear and fun, with no Etro dusty hues. From flamingo pinks to juicy sweet oranges, from country sky blues to acidic lime greens, each shade has been sugared to give a pleasure jolt to the wearer and all who admire the Mini Vela.

The Mini Vela Bag Collection features various styles ranging from the cross-body bag to shoulder and tote bags. The bags are designed to cater for every occasion, from a casual day out to a glamorous evening event. The collection showcases the best of Italian craftsmanship and skill, with each bag expertly crafted with the highest attention to detail.

How Mini Is the Mini Vela?

Mini leather Vela bag features a metal fastening with chain embellished by a medallion with ETRO logo and Pegaso. The bag is perfect to be worn as a shoulder bag or as a crossbody bag.

The dimensions of the Mini Vela are 8.26 x 6.29 x 3.54 inches

Why Does Etro Use the Pegaso Symbol?

The Pegaso symbol, also known as the winged horse or the heavenly horse, has a rich cultural and historical significance in Italian mythology. It is believed to represent power, freedom, and creativity in Italian folklore, which perfectly aligns with Etro's core values and spirit.

Moreover, the founder of the brand, Gimmo Etro, saw the symbol as an icon of elegance and grace, which he wanted to impart into his clothing line.

The Pegaso symbol's intricate design is prominently featured in Etro's branding and marketing materials, including the company's logo, product packaging, and in-store decor. It is often depicted in bold colors, intricate patterns, and metals, which are a hallmark of the Etro brand's unique look and feel.

In addition to its cultural significance, the use of the Pegaso symbol has helped Etro differentiate itself from other luxury fashion brands. It has become a recognizable symbol that customers associate with the Etro brand, which has helped the company build a strong brand image and loyal customer base.

Which Mythology Symbol Was First? Pegaso or Medusa?

Etro's Pegaso and Versace's Medusa are two of the most iconic logos in the fashion industry. Both have been widely recognized and celebrated by fashion enthusiasts around the world. The question of whether Etro's Pegaso came before Versace's Medusa is a matter of debate among fashion historians.

Etro's Pegaso is a depiction of a winged horse that was used as a symbol of luxury and sophistication. The logo was first introduced in the 1968 and quickly became a symbol of the Etro brand. The Pegaso is said to represent freedom, power, and beauty – all qualities that the Etro brand embodies.

Versace's Medusa, on the other hand, is a depiction of the mythological figure of Medusa. The logo was first introduced in 1993 and has since become synonymous with the Versace brand. The Medusa is said to represent strength, power, and beauty – qualities that are also embodied by the Versace brand.

Both Etro's Pegaso and Versace's Medusa continue to be celebrated as symbols of luxury, substance, and beauty in the fashion industry, although in the opinion of AOC, Etro has more heart and soul. It’s the hippie heritage. But I admit also, that we see an edginess to Marco De Vincenzo’s Etro that brings it forwards in time. That was a must-achieve assignment for the new Creative Director. ~ Anne