Serpentine allure

JUST three years ago, a full-python purse was the last word in glamour and one which would induce sticker shock in mainstream consumers. As the highly sought-after snakeskin continues to embellish top-tier designs from luxury brands - Chloe with its compact Drew mini-bags for next season and Fendi's Baguette in python - the non-venomous snake is increasingly preyed upon by smaller fashion brands. Most notably, indie Asian labels with easy access to the breeds native to the region.

According to luxury group Kering's conservation and ecosystems specialist Helen …