New Bags by Polipo!

The Season’s surprise continues with the launch of the NEW MESSENGER with a new design.

This bag is full of pockets and possibilities, no limit to add gadgets and colors! Just ask here!

The straps system is renewed with a iron medical clasp buckle really strong and easy, the big flap of this bag make the design basic and allow you - together with a totally new buckles system - to carry on external huge load!

Plus a simple back pocket for your laptop and 1 more pocket to your important small personal stuff!

Have a look at the bags here.

Photo & text Copyright Polipo.

Lotuff and Clegg Leatherworks, Classic American Style

Lotuff and Clegg Leatherworks is another staple among American Brands that truly embodies classic American style.

All the craftsmanship is done right in the USA.

For decades Lotuff and Clegg have been developing sophisticated, luxurious accessories made from high quality materials with clean, classic design that will never go out of style and will be a piece that will remain with you for years to come.

Joe Lotuff & Frank Clegg
“Forty years ago, two boys found themselves standing by their fathers' sides. One stood in a factory that manufactured women's apparel, while the other stood in a factory that created leather accessories… We were both learning from our fathers, even then, about the importance of authenticity, design and craftsmanship.

Early on, we understood that products were seen as a reflection of an individual's personal style; and the best of those products—like the individual—got better with age. Lotuff & Clegg is the culmination of a hope that has been percolating for some time within each of us. And, our collaboration now allows us to bring the absolute best to a customer who can appreciate both the product's purpose and its worth.

We are humbled by your response to our team’s passion, artistry and talent. And, for the opportunity you have given us to honor both tradition and its master craftsmen, we thank you.”

See the photo gallery here.

Photos Copyright Lotuff and Clegg Leatherworks, Courtesy True North Brand Group.

Take a TRIP with Travelteq

Two years ago, we were inspired to create the best carry-on case ever made. Today we are proud to inform you we have succeeded.

Let us introduce to you our innovative TRIP: a travel case small enough to be stored in the overhead compartment of a plane, yet big enough to create the highest amount of comfort we could offer.

Comfort that starts with the possibility to easily transform the suitcase into a chair.

Discover what it’s like to be able to relax and work in any situation, even in airports, subways, train stations and parks.

Traveling through busy parts of the world can be an anonymizing experience from time to time, which is why we made an intelligent suitcase that allows you to retain your individuality at all times.

The addition of a smart kangaroo compartment allows you to get to your laptop, papers and pencils with ease, without having to open the entire case.

We believe that this travel suitcase with its unique Dutch design will make your journey more comfortable than ever.

In addition, we offer a version of the TRIP with a custom integrated sound system: top quality speakers that enable you to listen to your own music in the comfort of your hotel room.

And whenever you don’t want to use them, simply unplug them and remove them from the case.
Imagine taking the TRIP with you on a picnic: pick a sunny day, bring a good wine and some tasty food and put on your favorite tunes for a perfect afternoon!

Even if your iPhone or BlackBerry runs out of power, you can charge it through the TRIP. Enjoy your freedom.

The suitcase comes with high quality, smooth-gliding wheels, and an interior that includes a lot of special compartments adjusted to modern travel needs.

Our TRIP is based on a lifestyle. The lifestyle of Travelteq is about inspiration. Luxury is not a mere status symbol – it’s to encounter the feeling of freedom.

Have a look at the line here.

Photos & text Copyright Travelteq.

Gaspard Yurkievich for Eastpak

“In Love with Beauty,” the Fall/Winter 2010 Collection

Taking the next step in the series of high end collaborations Eastpak is proud to present the Fall/Winter 2010 collection designed by French top designer Gaspard Yurkievich.

This collection is a tribute to the “buffalo” movement that was launched in the second half of the 80’s by Ray Petri. Petri was the first stylist to bring a touch of elegance and luxury to the urban lifestyle. The designs by Gaspard Yurkievich are based on this search for beauty in all items we use in our day to day lives.

For this collection Gaspard Yurkievich used the classic bomber jacket with its bright orange lining and Eastak’s functional bags as sources of inspiration. By adding an unexpected mix of gold, silver and gunmetal to all metal accessories and zippers on the bags all items get a Gaspard Yurkievich unique and luxurious signature. Bags are restyled using the codes of luxury without ever losing sight of the bags’ functionality.

The elegant redefinition of the styles is underlined by the selection of materials used on the bags, such as shiny nylon, hound’s-tooth, metallic jacquard and embossed leather. On some models different fabrics are even united which emphasizes the unique cut of the bags.

This collection brings exclusive, high end versions of all classic Eastpak styles, the backpack,
shoulder bag, shopper and waist belt, but also a wallet, a multimedia pouch and a toilet case. Within the same collection there are also two jackets that adhere to the same code of top end luxury.

About Gaspard Yurkievich
A native of Paris, (born May 16, 1972), Gaspard Yurkievich studied at the Studio Bercot from 1991-93; wherein after graduation, he trained under Jean Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler and Jean Colonna.

Known for his wild and outlandish catwalk presentations, Gaspard Yurkievich is fast becoming the designer of choice by fashion forward young men and women who like wearing street and urban clothes with a Parisian touch.

In 1998, during the Fall/Winter 1999 season, his solo collection, “Distressed” debuted on the Paris runways. During the Spring 2005 menswear season, Yurkievich shocked his audience. In a most unexpected presentation, the group of urban dancers hired by Yurkievich showed how the clothes would really be worn. They danced, body-popped, scratched, vogued in a sexually explicit manner. With Gaspard Yurkievich, you have to expect the unexpected.

Gaspard Yurkievich on his collaboration with Eastpak:
“For me Eastpak is an iconic brand of my generation. And today the brand is still present in streets everywhere. When Eastpak contacted me we immediately thought to create a collection dedicated to my generation: people in their thirties, concerned with their image but still with the casual spirit of Eastpak.”

Photo Copyright Eastpak.

Walter Van Beirendonck + Chris&Tibor Collaboration Bags

In January of this year, I introduced you to the collaboration between Walter Van Bereindonck and Chris&Tibor, who just sent me their latest press release:

Thursday June 25th at 2pm saw the Walter Van Bereindonck show hit the Bataclan in Paris’ trendy 11th district for Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011.

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As our second season collaborating with Walter, this year’s collection is bigger, better, and crazier…featuring the larger than life tiger and crocodile backpacks as big hits on the runway as well as the robot backpack.

Further to these, the new Spring Summer 2011 collection includes the tiger and hope belt bags, the nylon W gym bag, the ‘Read my W skin’ side bag and leather belts, the W side bag and leather harnesses—available in a variety of checked fabrics too—the W laptop case, in a choice of leather, croc leather or nylon and a case for the ‘au courant’ Apple iPad in black leather or nylon.

Lastly the not to be forgotten leather ‘W’ wash bag.

The colour range this year is red, green, white and black with the additional checked range.

For you eager beavers we have decided to repeat last season’s successful 2 weeks pre-order option, available on our online shop from the next week and following this the collection will be stocked in the world’s most coveted couture boutiques and department stores from January 2011.

Please note Walter Van Beirendonck + Chris&Tibor first collaboration AW 2010-11 is in stores soon.

Available online at shop.christibor.com.



Photos 2011 s/s collection & text Courtesy and Copyright Chris&Tibor.

CÔTEetCIEL: Accessories that Cover the Coast & Sky

CÔTEetCIEL is the Paris-based label of lifestyle bags and accessories for men who enjoy a nomadic life!

A trademark of Paper Rain, CÔTEetCIEL was founded in 2008 and aspires to minimalist and angular shapes with functional designs.

Whether you arm yourself with a rucksack or iPod pouch, you can be a modern nomad with CÔTEetCIEL.




Photos Copyright CÔTEetCIEL.

Travelteq—Travelers for Travelers

Two years ago, a group of friends in Amsterdam launched a unique line of travel products in an attempt to satisfy their ongoing travel needs.

Now they are able to share their travel expertise with other travelers through Travelteq.

Travelteq bags are constructed out of handmade top-quality Italian leather with superior lining in assorted colors.

Outside compartments for plane tickets, sunglasses, and mobile phones are designed to meet your every travel need.

A shock resistant compartment for laptops and outside trolley attachment strips complete your satisfaction.

The newest arrival to Travelteq is “Trash”—a bag made from genuine Florentine Vacchetta leather, stitched by expert craftsmen!

Be sure to check out the Travelteq blog where you will find useful tips on your favorite cities around the world.

PhotosCopyright Travelteq.

Walter Van Beirendonck + Chris&Tibor: Collaboration Bags

Last year I introduced you to two London-based designers who design luxury bags and accessories: Chris & Tibor. We learned that Chris Liu graduated from the London College of Fashion, while Tibor Matyas studied art management and marketing.

For the autumn/winter collection of 2010-11, Chris & Tibor have collaborated with trendsetting designer Walter Van Beirendonck in a new line of messenger bags, belt bags, backpacks, and avant-garde clothing.

Born 1957 in Brecht, Belgium, Walter studied Fashion at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp. His designs derive inspiration from art, music, and literature—combined with a mix of ethnic and nature influences. He portrays humor with the color red and safe sex with the wink of an eye!

While Chris & Tibor contributed the bags, Walter has provided a collection of garments entitled Take a W-Ride, which rises from tension—the state of opposing forces, which result in mental or emotional strain.

Take a W-Ride alludes to the opposites in the world today, such as love and hate, as well as economic turmoil, political instability, and the high-anxiety producing tension within the fashion industry.

Although Chris & Tibor and Walter Van Beirendonck debuted their a/w 2010 collection from 22-26 January in Paris, I am pleased to present you with the latest image gallery!



Bags within the photo & slideshow Copyright Chris & Tibor.
Clothing Copyright Walter Van Beirendonck.

The Energetically Charged Bags & Accessories of Maxim Sharov

Maxim Sharov was born and raised in Zheleznodorozhny, a city located 21 km outside of Moscow, where he now resides. Zheleznodorozhny—which translates as ‘railway’—was founded in 1861 as a settlement that served the train station of Obiralovka. The settlement gained its fame by Leo Tolstoy as the place of death for the main character in Anna Karenina.

I had the privilege of interviewing this Russian designer of men's accessories last week. Luckily for me, Russian language and literature was my major in university—even reading Anna Karenina in the original!—so I was able to conduct the interview in Maxim’s native language and feel his passion in designing bags for men.

When growing up in Zheleznodorozhny, what was it that influenced you to become a designer?
What influenced my decision to become a designer was that, for some time in my childhood, I was a punker and, afterwards, a hippy. Then, it came to me to make various accessories that would correspond to the ways of such subcultures.

Where did you go to school?
I completed my studies at the Faculty of Applied Art of the Moscow State Textile University ‘A.N. Kosygin’. Although I entered as a major in shoe wear, in the course of my studies I chose to major as a designer of bags, receiving my degree in the year 2000.

So when did you first start designing bags?
I started designing 18 years ago, when I was only 15 years old.

And what do you find inspires you when you design?
I’m not inspired by the mere purpose of fashion or style but rather by things that are created for practical purposes, such as the elements of workers’ clothes or military ammunition. I like things that can be used for a long time, not looking to the variability of fashion but rather to things that have confirmed their usefulness.

Could you give a percentage for the amount of practicality vs. style?
90% practicality, 10% style.

How do you perceive life, and do you express this perception in your accessories?
I read that things, as well as everything around us, have energy and this energy largely depends on how the things were made and the emotions that were felt in making them. If something is created by one person who conceived the idea, then this thing is energetically more powerful than something that was made in a manufacturing line where one person performs only one operation and then passes it to another.

You’ve made a very strong case for the artisan! So, with what types of materials do you like to work?
Yes, in general, I only work with leather. For this reason, I love to buy leather not only of the best quality but also leather with defects, scratches, holes, and impressions that appear naturally.

I’m always at your disposal to answer more questions with great pleasure. Спасибо!



Slide show Copyright by Maxim Sharov.