Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Faridah' Shoulder Bag in Distressed Lambskin
Shoulder Bag / Hobo with a structured base and slouchy body · Marc by Marc Jacobs (Marc Jacobs International), Premium contemporary tier known for youthful, accessible luxury with a grunge-chic aesthetic.
Collection: Fall/Winter permanent collection line (mid-2000s to early 2010s). The 'Classic Q' and subsequent distressed leather series were staples of the brand.
Style
Shoulder Bag / Hobo with a structured base and slouchy body
Brand
Marc by Marc Jacobs (Marc Jacobs International), Premium contemporary tier known for youthful, accessible luxury with a grunge-chic aesthetic.
Material
Distressed, soft pebbled lambskin with a vintage 'worn' finish. Features machine-stitched industrial seams, heavy piping, and reinforced leather rounded tabs.
Dimensions
Width: 35cm (14"), Height: 30cm (12"), Depth: 12cm (4.5"), Strap Drop: 23cm (9").
Description
Defined by its 'lived-in' luxe appearance, this shoulder bag is a quintessential piece of 2000s fashion. Its slouchy silhouette and oversized hardware embody the effortless, downtown-cool vibe that made the Marc by Marc Jacobs line a commercial powerhouse.
Key Features
Signature embossed turn-lock, double-rivet strap connectors, reinforced corner piping, and the distinctive 'Faridah' slouchy shape.
Material & Construction
Distressed, soft pebbled lambskin with a vintage 'worn' finish. Features machine-stitched industrial seams, heavy piping, and reinforced leather rounded tabs.
Color & Pattern
Distressed Cognac/Tobacco Brown. Features a natural variations in tone (darker areas at the base, lighter wear on protruding edges) to mimic a well-loved vintage patina.
Hardware Details
Brushed silver-tone (palladium-look) hardware. Features the signature 'Marc by Marc Jacobs' embossed turn-lock, branded rivets, and large O-rings for strap attachment.
Interior Description
Typically lined in signature 'Marc by Marc Jacobs' black and white logo-printed cotton fabric. Includes one zippered back pocket and two open slip pockets.
Closure Type
Magnetic snap internal closure supplemented by an aesthetic/security decorative turn-lock flap on the front face.
Strap & Handle Details
Double integrated flat leather shoulder straps with reinforced stitching and decorative rivet detailing at the connection points.
Craftsmanship Details
Sturdy industrial machine stitching with heavy-duty thread. Edge paint is minimal, as the design favors a natural, folded-leather aesthetic for a rugged look.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'Marc by Marc Jacobs' text around the turn-lock, high-weight feel of the metal rivets, and the characteristic grain of the lambskin. Authentic 'Standard Supply' metal plates are usually found internally.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Indonesia or China, which was standard for the Marc by Marc Jacobs contemporary line to maintain accessible price points.
Era & Period
Mid-2000s 'It-Bag' Era. Reflects the bohemian-grunge luxury trend popularized by Marc Jacobs during his tenure as creative director.
Age Estimate
Circa 2008-2011, based on the hardware style and the specific distressed leather treatment popular during that design cycle.
Cultural Significance
Represented the rise of the 'Secondary Line' in luxury fashion, where high-end designers created more affordable, edgy collections for a younger demographic.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy patina and color fading consistent with the distressed style but showing actual wear on the straps and corners. Hardware shows minor surface scratches.
Value Estimate
Resale value: $80 - $150 USD. Original retail was approximately $450 - $550 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Requires leather conditioner to prevent the lambskin from drying out and cracking. Professional cleaning for the interior fabric lining is recommended.
Similar Handbags
Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier Hobo (single strap), Balenciaga City Bag (similar distressed leather), Mulberry Alexa (similar turn-lock aesthetic).
Interesting Facts
The Faridah was one of the most popular 'workhorse' bags for college students and young professionals in the late 2000s due to its durability and capacity.