Bvlgari is revisiting one of the most distinctive designs in its archives with the return of the Melone clutch, a sculptural evening accessory that blurs the boundaries between handbag, jewel and objet d’art.
Originally conceived in the 1970s, the Melone takes its name and distinctive form from the melon fruit, whose associations with abundance, prosperity and vitality inform the design. Its characteristic fluted silhouette, generous proportions and sculptural surfaces have been reimagined for a contemporary audience while retaining the character of the original creation.
The revival forms part of Bvlgari’s expanded evening repertoire, with the Maison positioning the clutch as a wearable jewel and a continuation of its long-standing approach to accessories as objects of precious design. Rather than presenting the Melone as a straightforward re-edition, Bvlgari describes the new iteration as a dialogue between past and present, drawing directly from its heritage while introducing new materials and details.
For the new season, the clutch is crafted in pleated, gold-finish aluminium, giving its rounded body a striking sculptural presence. Fluid contours follow the curved form, while a cabochon-inspired closure provides a jewellery-like focal point. The closure is finished with a white mother-of-pearl insert, adding contrast to the metallic surface.
The opening mechanism further distinguishes the design. When opened, the clutch reveals two perfectly symmetrical halves, each lined in supple nappa leather. The construction combines the visual impact of a sculptural object with the functionality expected of an evening bag.
Adding to its versatility, the Melone comes with two interchangeable silk tassels in black and ivory. For further personalisation, 12 additional tassel colours can be ordered, allowing the accessory to be adapted to different evening looks.
The return of the Melone reflects Bvlgari’s continued interest in its own design history, bringing an archival creation into the present without abandoning the distinctive forms that made it memorable. Its rounded silhouette, jewellery-inspired hardware and elaborate construction preserve the spirit of the 1970s original while the use of gold-finish aluminium and mother-of-pearl gives the clutch a distinctly contemporary expression.
