Okay, so, let’s talk about this Fendi bag I’ve been working on. The “Zucca Oyster Bag,” or “Zucchino Oyster Shoulder Bag,” whatever you want to call it. It’s a classic, and I wanted to make my own version.
First, I started by looking up a bunch of information online about growing zucchini. Yeah, zucchini, the vegetable. It sounds weird, but it’s part of the name, and I figured it might give me some inspiration for the texture or something. I read about different types of zucchini seeds – “zucchino verde,” “zucchino romanesco,” “zucchino screziato-grey.” They talked about how some plants are “eretta” (upright) and “vigorosa” (vigorous). One description mentioned “internodi medio-corti” which means short spaces between the nodes. I guess that makes it easier to harvest or something.
I also found some stuff about diseases that zucchini can get, like “ToLCNDV” and “oidio.” And how some seeds are resistant to these. They said some varieties are better for growing in greenhouses (“serra”) or tunnels, especially in the winter, like in the “centro-sud” of Italy.
Moving on from the vegetable stuff, I started to think about the actual bag. I wanted it to be strong, like those “robusta” zucchini plants. And kind of structured, but still soft, you know? I pictured the “costolature” (ribs) of the zucchini and thought about how I could incorporate that into the design. Maybe some kind of stitching or paneling?
So, I grabbed my sketchbook and started sketching. Lots of rough ideas, trying to get the shape right. I played around with different strap lengths and closure ideas. I really wanted it to be practical and easy to use, like how they say it’s easy to “individuazione e raccolta” (find and pick) the zucchini from those plants with the short internodes.
Then came the fun part – choosing the materials. I spent hours looking at different fabrics and leathers. I finally settled on a beautiful, textured material that reminded me of the zucchini skin, kind of, with a little shine like the description mentioned “striature brillanti” (bright streaks). I also picked a sturdy lining and some high-quality hardware.
Next, I drafted a pattern. This took some trial and error, let me tell you. I made a few prototypes out of cheap fabric, testing the size and shape. I wanted it to be just right – not too big, not too small.
Finally, I started sewing. It was a slow process, but I took my time. I double-checked every stitch, making sure everything was perfect. I even added a little hidden pocket inside, because who doesn’t love a secret pocket?
And you know what? After all that, I finally finished it! My own version of the Fendi Zucca Oyster Bag. It’s not exactly the same, of course, but it’s got my own personal touch. It’s sturdy, it’s stylish, and it’s something I’m really proud of. I think it captures that “facilita” (ease) that they talk about with the zucchini. I mean, I can just grab it and go, and it holds everything I need.
It was a journey, from zucchini seeds to a finished bag, but I learned a lot along the way. And I think the final product is something special. A bag that’s great for specialty stores.