The Swag Bag

Category: Accessories

The swag bag is a statement bag, designed for carrying capacity and styling versatility. It follows the archetype of a classic luxury bag, but it has a distinct appearance due to intentional design distinctions. The base has a separate panel and seven brass feet which raises the bag from the ground. This creates a distinguished appearance, as elevation has always been associated with luxury. The flap is the centerpiece; its sweeping curves and points express the bag's sharp and serious attitude. This is also amplified by the bag's rigidity, thick handles, and gussets that escape from the bag's architectural stance. The swag bag carries my philosophy that a luxury and distinct bag should be designed as a sculpture minimal in surface details but expressive in form. The swag bag is made from Walpier Buttero which is prized for its appearance, durability, and graceful patina. It is fully saddle stitched with linen thread to achieve the french slant, but this appearance can also be achieved with specialized sewing machines for mass production. The piping in the seams helps the bag keep its form, protects the edges, and is commonly seen in high end leather bags. The handles are rolled around a thick leather core and reinforced for durability and a rigid stance. They are the ideal length for shoulder or hand carry and the right thickness for optimal comfort. The front of the bag features a horse collar fastener which has a premium aesthetic and feel. It is also a nod to equestrian tradition and culture which quietly indicates luxury. The swag bag is not only a distinct functional sculpture but also built from a long lineage of leather craft traditions. The bag is a culmination of techniques and practices informed by American, Japanese, Italian, and French leathercraft traditions. I find it important to learn many different approaches to the same craft to have a well-informed personal practice. I find traditional leatherworking to be sustainable and ethical which can be scaled for mass production with careful design intent and decisions.