Rimowa is making its debut in the handbag market with The Original Bag, a sleek, unisex creation crafted from aluminum. This move marks the German brand’s first significant foray into a crowded category, reflecting its commitment to urban mobility and design innovation.
The Original Bag mirrors the iconic grooved aluminum of Rimowa’s renowned luggage, maintaining a “timeless” aesthetic that aligns with its unisex appeal. The bag’s introduction is accompanied by a high-profile campaign featuring four dynamic personalities: model Liu Wen, rapper Central Cee, fashion editor and Off-White creative director Ib Kamara, and photographer Larissa Hofmann. The campaign will launch on Rimowa’s digital platforms this Thursday.
Rimowa’s expansion beyond traditional suitcases began with the introduction of the Never Still and Signature lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. These collections included canvas and nylon backpacks, totes, cross-body bags, pouches, and business cases.
The development of The Original Bag presented significant technical challenges. Rimowa’s engineers adapted components from their four-wheel suitcases, such as an aluminum frame, and devised a new button mechanism that allows for single-finger operation.
Founded in 1898, Rimowa pioneered the use of aluminum and polycarbonate in luggage, with notable innovations including four-wheel designs and waterproofing. Although the Piccolo, introduced in 1994 in collaboration with Christian Dior, was a small travel bag, The Original Bag represents a more refined and versatile offering in Rimowa’s evolving product line.
As Rimowa ventures into this new category, it aims to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating a handbag that stands out in both form and utility.
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