STARRING in its first dedicated campaign, the Manta bag is seen submerged under the sea — a move alluding to its arresting nature and McQueen’s ongoing affinity with the natural world.
First glimpsed at Lee Alexander McQueen’s Spring/ Summer 2010 Plato’s Atlantis show, the Manta bag’s shape derives inspiration from the poise and strength of the manta ray. Translated through a sculptural folded silhouette and strong colour palette of black, red and gunmetal leathers, the bag is an undisputable scene-steale: both underwater and beyond.
McQueen Manta Handbag Campaign 2026
McQueen Manta Handbag Campaign 2026
Taking pride of place in ethereal aquatic visuals directed by SJ Todd and photographed by Tim Walker, the Manta bag braves the big blue or rather a recreation of it, devised by set designer Gary Card.
Clutching the Manta bag close, British model Vivien Solari‘s tousled locks and signature McQueen skull print dress move hypnotically beside her as she drifts through the dreamlike waterscape, whilst never losing sight of her trusty shoulder bag.
McQueen Manta Handbag Campaign 2026
The Manta bag’s debut campaign is one of the house’s most memorable under creative director Seán McGirr, succeeding in bringing the sea-inspired silhouette to life and marrying marine ecosystems with a modern appetite for accessories anchored by visual appeal and exceptional performance — both above and below the sea surface.
by Ella O’Gorman