In May 2014, Gwyneth Paltrow touched down at JFK Airport wearing floral lace Givenchy slip-on sneakers and carrying a bold, $3,800 Chanel Graffiti tote—looking effortlessly chic despite a noticeably somber mood.
Gwyneth Paltrow arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on May 21, 2014 (Credit: JD / WENN)
At the time, Gwyneth Paltrow was facing intense media scrutiny—not only for her much-publicized “conscious uncoupling” from Chris Martin but also for controversial remarks comparing online criticism to the emotional toll of war.
Gwyneth Paltrow keeps it casual yet stylish in floral Givenchy lace slip-on sneakers, cropped navy pants, a black leather jacket, and oversized sunglasses while carrying her edgy Chanel Graffiti tote
But controversy aside, we can’t help but spotlight her striking Chanel tote. Yes, that distressed-looking purse she was holding was Chanel. And it costs a whopping $3,800!
Gwyneth Paltrow carrying the Chanel Colorama Graffiti tote, a bold watercolor-inspired canvas bag from the brand’s edgy Spring/Summer 2014 collection
Inside Chanel’s Edgiest Collection Yet: The Spring/Summer 2014 Graffiti Tote
The Chanel Graffiti tote is from the brand’s Spring/Summer 2014 collection, which features many distressed, raw-looking pieces far from the usual Chanel aesthetic we all love.
The spray-painted Graffiti tote features paint splotches, rope detailing, and an overall edgy streetwear vibe. While the signature interlocking Cs are still present, they do not resemble the usual gold-toned hardware from the classic quilted flap bags.
Simply put, the bag lacks the sophistication of the traditional Chanel purse. And for almost $4,000, this edgy purse may push it a little too much!
Model carrying a Chanel Graffiti tote handbag (Credit: Chanel)
While Gwyneth Paltrow’s Chanel Graffiti tote sparked mixed reactions, she’s not the only celebrity embracing street-art-inspired fashion.
Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Embracing Graffiti-Inspired Fashion
From customized Hermès Birkins to Louis Vuitton graffiti prints, stars continue incorporating bold, urban aesthetics into their wardrobes. Let’s take a look at some other celebrities who have embraced graffiti-style bags and accessories.:
Kim Kardashian’s Personalized Graffiti Birkin Bag
- Event: Out and About in Los Angeles
- Outfit: Kim Kardashian showcased a unique white Hermès Birkin bag, hand-painted by her daughter, North West, adding a personal graffiti touch to the luxury accessory.
- Details: The customized bag featured colorful designs, blending high fashion with personal artistry.
- More Details: Kim Kardashian’s personalized Hermès Birkin bag
Rita Ora’s Customized Graffiti Birkin
- Event: Leaving The Grove Music Studios
- Outfit: Rita Ora carried a Hermès Birkin bag adorned with graffiti art, adding an edgy twist to her ensemble.
- Details: The graffiti elements on the bag showcased her bold fashion sense and appreciation for street art.
- More Details: Rita Ora’s graffiti-adorned Hermès Birkin bag
Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Chanel Graffiti Messenger Bag
- Event: Arriving at LAX Airport
- Outfit: Catherine Zeta-Jones paired her travel attire with a Chanel ‘On the Pavements’ graffiti messenger bag.
- Details: The canvas bag featured graffiti designs, blending luxury with urban aesthetics.
- More Details: Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Chanel graffiti messenger bag
Kendall Jenner’s Louis Vuitton Graffiti Pochette
- Event: Coffee Run in New York City
- Outfit: Kendall Jenner accessorized her ensemble with a Louis Vuitton graffiti pochette accessories bag.
- Details: The bag added a vibrant, artistic flair to her outfit, showcasing her trendy style.
- More Details: Kendall Jenner’s Louis Vuitton graffiti pochette
Heidi Klum’s Graffiti-Style Overcoat
- Event: America’s Got Talent Season 18 Auditions
- Outfit: Heidi Klum wore a white overcoat with colorful graffiti-style designs by Philipp Plein.
- Details: The ‘Agnelli’ single-breasted coat featured multicolored graffiti prints, blending high fashion with street art influences.
- More Details: Heidi Klum’s graffiti-style overcoat by Philipp Plein
These instances highlight how celebrities incorporate graffiti-inspired elements into their fashion choices, blending luxury with urban art to create unique and expressive styles.
Handbag from Chanel’s spray-painted ‘Graffiti’ collection