Hardshell Bag Collection
Polycarbonate backpack that provides support for the laptop and is a unique fashion accessory.
Design
The concept was to create a hard-shell backpack to safely carry a laptop and add a certain uniqueness to the style. The starting point looking at other brands that were making hard-shelled luggages and minimalist bags.
Inspiration
Proportion-wise, we wanted to land somewhere above. Materialization was simple natural leathers or pressed dot textures. For colors, we wanted to land somewhere around simple grays and blacks, possibly exploring natural textures.
Shape exploration
Through a combination of 2D and 3D sketching processes, we finally reached a concept that felt clean and had enough personality.
Developement
To create a hard-shell backpack, 3D renderings and paper mockups were made to choose the right size and proportions.
Prototyping
We went through experimentation with a high-density pressed foam that had different finishes, including matte PU or real leather. Choosing the right leather detailing and breathable mesh for the straps. We also added a padded laptop compartment and zipper pockets for small goods.
Color ads
Introducing the polycarbonate press allowed us to use the hydrographic print on the backpack shells. We created color stories that reflected the trends as well as our collection colorways.
Resemblence of the nature
The main direction was exploring textures from the nature, after seeing similar trends in iPhone covers and macbook shells.
Collection ads
After backpack was well received by the customers, we introduced more products to supplement the collection. Macbook sleeve, womens clutch and iPad bag were added.
Clutch
The fashion clutch was a slight departure from the intended goal, but the design language remained similar. Asymmetric and abstract shapes were developed to help the factory create an actual bag with magnetic closures.
Conclusion
The project was met with success, and customers received the new product category with much positive feedback, asking for more sizes and styles. We found success at the intersection of style, statement and practicality.
Role
Design
Credits
Creative direction, design lead — Rem D Koolhaas
Photography, art direction — Frankie Sun, Clement Balavoine
Photography, art direction — Frankie Sun, Clement Balavoine
