Often when fashion brands collaborate with design schools, they do it for all the wrong reasons – to harness ideas on the cheap and to gain some free and easy publicity. And, usually, it shows. So it’s refreshing when news emerges of a collaboration that not only makes sense for the student and the brand, but also you, the customer.
The Royal College Of Art’s collaboration with Brooks, the British saddle and bike accessory brand, is that sort of dream pairing. Graduate student Amos Field Reid not only came up with a functional and aesthetically pleasing idea in moulded leather bags but also made Brooks develop its manufacturing process.
The bags were produced in Brooks’ factory in Smethwick using the same machinery and techniques employed to make its classic leather saddles.
Based on the width of a Brooks saddle, the bags can be attached to bikes through the saddle loops, the frame or the handlebar, or worn on a belt, or as a shoulder bag. Sold in three different sizes, based on as many saddles, the bag is simple in its design and clever in its function. In essence, it’s a perfect sponsored_longform.
From £125, available at B1866, 36 Earlham Street, London
