Powerful, enigmatic, mysterious—these are some of the words that come to mind when one thinks of the panther. Placed in tandem with French luxury maison Cartier, however, the feline also symbolises heritage, tradition and expert craftsmanship. The emblematic wild animal first appeared at the maison in 1914 and has since graced the brand’s watch, jewellery and leather goods offerings. It has also seen variations in its design, donning jewels such as diamonds, onyx and sapphires. Cartier’s director of accessory and leather goods design, Marlin Yuson now introduces the latest Panthère Graphique de Cartier bag collection.
Curved, sensual and with no visible seams, the Panthère Graphique de Cartier bag is crafted out of soft grained leather. Its crowning jewel is an intricately designed panther head—created in collaboration with a high jewellery sculptor—which sits atop its clasp. As versatile as it is striking, the bag serves as a crossbody and shoulder carry and has two lengths due to its linked chain. It is also available in small and mini sizing.
It is no wonder then that the maison’s Panthère Graphique de Cartier bag campaign is fronted by its long-time collaborator and ambassador Lily Collins. The Emily in Paris star, who is known for her elegant yet playful fashion ensembles, has been a maison-favourite, most notably gracing the Clash de Cartier line-up.
Dialling in from Paris, Collins is fresh-faced and lights up upon talking about her long-standing history with the brand. “My 18th-birthday gift was a vintage watch that I wear to this day. It feels like a piece of home to me. When I became the face of the Clash deCartier collection and then the first of their leather goods, it felt like such an organic intimate relationship because it is something that was so much a part of my childhood,” the 33-year-old shares.
In this exclusive interview with Vogue Singapore, Collins delves into her long-standing relationship with Cartier, her favourite Panthère Graphique de Cartier bag, and how the maison’s pieces lend to her personal style.
How would you describe Cartier in your own words?
Cartier is a historical yet modern brand, but it also represents independence, passion, a fierce drive, duality, creativity and class as well as a quiet confidence. And I think that that is something with all of Cartier’s jewellery as well as its bags—it doesn’t need to say too much, but it says everything.
How does Cartier encapsulate your style and personality?
I grew up with this kind of duality and it’s being able togo to events and red carpets and then also being able to scoot around town. The idea that you can wear, whether it’s Cartier’s jewellery or its bags, to both and that you can fit your life in a bag, but also have it still look exactly as it should, is this amazing way of representing yourself in a way that is quietly confident.
You’ve graced numerous Cartier campaigns, from Clash Unlimited to Clash de Cartier. Have these experiences been collaborative?
Yes, everything from choosing the photographer to talking about the creative. I think because we align so much on the overall mantra of the brand, the experience feels like you’re in a family that is being creative. Cartier knows what it is but it’s always moving forward and changing and embracing what’s next. So when they embrace that in me, I appreciate that.
“I think that is something with all of Cartier’s jewellery as well as its bags—it doesn’t need to say too much, but it says everything.”
What first drew you to the Panthère Graphique de Cartier bag?
Not only are you getting an incredible bag, you’re getting a piece of jewellery. I mean, the chain alone is like the most gorgeous accessory or necklace if you’re wearing it across your body. And also, the fact that you get to inherit this Panthère, I mean, that is the emblem of Cartier. I think that that’s a beautiful thing, it’s a gift to yourself. It’s something that you get to wear proudly but also use, so it’s logical and aspirational.
Which one is your favourite piece?
I like larger bags. I just want to be on the go all day and not worry that I don’t have something with me. I like the small version in creamy white. It has this pearlescent colour which is not beige and not white, so it goes with everything. And I think it just looks so beautiful with the gold and silver metals combined.
How would you style it?
I wear it across my body so that way my hands are free. I wear it with jeans, a white shirt, blazer and loafers, boots or heels. You can wear it with anything and it makes it feel that much more elevated.
What’s next?
I formed a production company with my husband and our producing partner. We also know that there’s going to be a season four of Emily In Paris, so there’s also that whichI’m excited about. And I’m doing a project called Crocodile of Wall Street about this couple who are part of a crypto heist. The female protagonist has an ulterior personality where she is a rapper. So I will be playing a rapper-robber.
Order your copy of the March ‘Roots’ issue of Vogue Singapore online or pick it up on newsstands today.
