CHARLES & KEITH Icon: Petra Curved Shoulder Bag
Sweet but edgy and very capable of killer looks that turn heads.
That’s how I see iconic pieces from CHARLES & KEITH every season, and the Petra bag perfectly embodies this sentiment.
In 2024, the Petra lineup returned with refreshed colourways, as seen on Korean actress Han So-hee (I screamed on the inside). The curved shoulder bag has since made its way to the Icons list and is here to stay in the permanent collection–unsurprisingly, seeing how it blends versatility with just the right hint of personality.
Known for her captivating screen presence and chic street style, Korean actress Han So-hee brings a fresh, modern edge to the CHARLES & KEITH lineup and adds a layer of cool confidence that’s impossible to ignore. From daywear to evening glam, her boldness and soft femininity echo the bag’s design—a graceful curve paired with striking grommet details.
Design and Aesthetics
Right out of the box, the Petra bag feels like a little slice of luxury. The smooth, supple vegan leather is a delight to touch, boasting a fine-grain texture that mimics genuine leather without the guilt. The stitching is clean and precise, and the polished silver hardware subtly gleams without screaming for attention. Unfortunately, the soft blush pink I went for is no longer available, but the bag comes in classic neutrals that complement wardrobe staples well.
But what caught my eye is its curved silhouette, a gentle arc that hugs the body when worn, and the bold grommet-strap that adds a hint of edge, striking a balance between everyday relaxed and structured statement
Functionality and Practicality
Despite its petite size, the Petra bag surprises with its thoughtful interior space. It’s roomy enough to hold your essentials—phone, wallet, keys, a compact makeup kit—without feeling bulky. It was perfect for day-to-night transitions, slipping effortlessly from casual brunches to evening cocktails. The top zipper closure keeps everything secure, and the smooth lining inside adds to the luxurious feel.
Comfort-wise, the shoulder strap’s length hits just right. The shorter strap allows the bag to sit snugly under the arm, making it incredibly comfortable for all-day wear, whether navigating city streets or heading to meetings. One thing I despise about bags with separate straps of different lengths is that swapping them out is often a struggle and a chore. But the grommets and buckles on the Petra make detaching the straps effortless, and I can switch over to the longer crossbody strap in the blink of an eye. Their lightweight nature means it never feels like a burden, a godsend when you’re out and about.
Durability and Maintenance
One of the things I appreciate most about the Petra is how well it holds up daily. The vegan leather resists scratches and stains better than expected, and the bag’s structure remains firm without sagging or losing shape, maintaining a fresh appearance even with regular use.
Maintenance is straightforward—wiping it down with a damp cloth keeps it looking pristine. Given its light colour, I avoid rough surfaces, but its durability gives me confidence that it will last through many seasons. The hardware also shows no signs of tarnishing, which speaks to CHARLES & KEITH’s quality standards.
Styling Ideas
I’ll never be able to pull off sweet looks like Han So-hee does, but when I paired it with a sleek leather jacket and a high-neck satin blouse, the contrast between soft and edgy textures instantly caught my eye—and turned heads. But don’t box yourself into that edgy, rebellious look; this bag is a chameleon. The bag’s gentle, curved silhouette beautifully softens sharper lines, making it a versatile companion for bold outfits if you want to switch things up:
Casual weekend vibes: Try it with a soft oversized sweater, straight-leg jeans, and white sneakers—the bag’s curved shape adds a polished touch to laid-back comfort.
Boho-chic flair: Pair it with a flowy maxi dress, layered necklaces, and ankle boots; the bag’s structured silhouette contrasts beautifully with relaxed, free-spirited textures.
Office-ready: Combine it with a crisp white button-down shirt, tailored trousers, and loafers—the bag’s hardware adds subtle texture without overwhelming your professional look.
Edgy street style: Rock it with a graphic tee, distressed denim shorts, and combat boots—the grommet strap detail on the bag ties in perfectly with a grunge-inspired outfit.
Speaking of edgy details, the pumps with the buckled grommet straps wrapping around the ankle I wore alongside the Petra complete the look—a coordinated nod to the bag’s hardware. Seeing Han So-hee rocking them convinced me to try pulling them off, and I gotta admit that the black-and-silver combo is modern and sleek. CHARLES & KEITH shoes are known to be incredibly comfortable in the toe box; these with a pointed toe were no different, and the modest kitten heel made walking in them a breeze.
The Petra may not be a bag I typically reach for, but I feel different every time I style it, whether my mood leans towards relaxed, sophisticated, or grungy that day. And that’s what makes it a fun keeper in my wardrobe.
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Some pieces featured in these images are kind PR products from the team without obligation to share them on my blog. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission when you click the links and make a purchase.
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