This bag is actually quite stunning in person. The stripes are done just like the RTW material is, with layers, not paint (there was one bag in spring that had a hand painted line on it, blue on white and white on blue). The black & white version of this bag is not the same material as this one. The pearl strap is fully detachable, and can also be attached at many points (or worn as a necklace, etc.). The inside is a lovely beige leather. I was buying this bag when the fuchsia frenzy caught my eye and I was only allowed one classic per month. It's truly gorgeous and not at all carnival or circus to me. It's very much a spring/summer bag, and the stripes are classic, plus the fact that the material is the same as the RTW jackets adds up to a very classic timeless bag.