Vintage Mulberry Bayswater in Chocolate Croc-Embossed Leather

An uncommon archival interpretation of Mulberry’s most recognizable silhouette, this Bayswater is rendered in rich chocolate-brown leather with an oversized crocodile embossing and finished with warm antique brass hardware.

The dramatic scale of the croc pattern gives the otherwise classic Bayswater a much more collector-driven feel. Unlike the more frequently encountered smooth and natural-grain versions, vintage croc-embossed Bayswaters appear considerably less often on the secondary market, making this a particularly strong example for someone looking beyond the standard iterations of the style.

The structured tote features Mulberry’s signature Postman’s Lock, two rolled top handles, belted detailing across the body and a spacious suede-lined interior with a zippered compartment. The chocolate-on-chocolate treatment is especially good here: from a distance it reads understated, while up close the variation in the embossed scales gives the leather substantial depth and texture.

Mulberry continues to revisit croc-print and Congo treatments for special Bayswater editions today, further tying this vintage example to a recurring—and more limited—part of the house’s design vocabulary. 

Details & Measurements

• Chocolate brown crocodile-embossed leather
• Antique brass-tone hardware
• Signature Postman’s Lock closure
• Double rolled leather top handles
• Adjustable belted side construction
• Brown suede interior
• Interior zip compartment
• Width: approx. 14–14.5 in / 35.5–37 cm
• Height: approx. 10.5–11.75 in / 27–30 cm
• Depth: approx. 6.3–6.5 in / 16–16.5 cm
• Handle drop: approx. 5–6.7 in / 13–17 cm

Comparable croc-embossed Bayswaters are documented at approximately 35.5–38 cm wide, 26–27 cm high and 16 cm deep; slight variation between production periods is normal. 

Condition: Very Good

Shows light to moderate signs of prior use consistent with its vintage age. The exterior exhibits some rubbing and color loss along the lower corners, edges, and leather straps, with light surface wear and natural creasing throughout. The crocodile embossing remains beautifully defined and the bag retains its structure. Hardware shows minor scratching and natural patina. 

The brown suede interior is in very good condition, with the nap remaining clean and well preserved overall. Variations and impressions visible in the suede are characteristic of the leather construction and storage rather than significant wear. Interior hardware and zip compartment remain well presented.