Interview about Totepographic Tote Bag, winner of the A' Fashion and Travel Accessories Design Award 2020
Topographic inspired design tote bag, to serve as an easy carryall, especially during those busy days spent shopping or running errands. The Tote bag capacity is like a mountain and can hold or carry many things. The oracle bone is form the overall structure of the bag, the topographic map form to be surface material just like a mountain uneven surface.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe inspiration came from blending natural landscapes with ancient culture. This creative journey began with a fascination for natural terrains, particularly the structure and layers of mountains. To add cultural depth, I incorporated symbols from Chinese oracle bones, creating a dialogue between humanity and nature, history and the modern era. This unique fusion conveys an interweaving of time and space through the design of the tote bag.
The handcrafted techniques of cutting and edge painting add an artistic touch to the tote, making the texture closer to the nature-inspired theme. Traditional craftsmanship brings each detail to life, creating a one-of-a-kind texture and echoing the diversity of nature. This process enhances the material quality, connecting the design more deeply with nature and providing both visual and tactile appeal.
The idea of mountainous capacity symbolizes vastness and inclusiveness, and I wanted to translate this concept into an accessory that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Inspired by the grand structure of mountains, this design strikes a balance between practicality and beauty, meeting everyday needs while showcasing the unique taste of the user.
Using 3D software for initial designs allowed me to quickly test the structure and form, and then traditional mock-ups provided a feel for the real-world textures. The combination of digital and analog methods let me explore bold shapes while ensuring the quality of the final product, achieving an ideal balance and refinement in details.
Italian calf leather was chosen for its soft yet durable quality, and its texture works well to represent the layered topographic effect. The choice of material is rooted in its premium and lasting qualities, embodying luxury while enhancing the natural aesthetic appeal of the design.
Black represents the stability and depth of minerals, giving the tote a sense of exploration. The understated black allows the user to gradually discover details over time, making the tote a part of their life journey, offering a deepened experience with continued use.
During the extensive development, a crucial breakthrough was finding the ideal structural design that would allow the topographic patterns to emerge naturally without compromising functionality. Fine-tuning the color and texture was also a key phase, ensuring the tote’s visual appeal while retaining its practicality.
My design philosophy is a fusion of nature, functionality, and luxury. This tote design goes beyond being an accessory, reflecting a lifestyle that integrates the textures of nature with high-end enjoyment, offering the user an enriching experience in daily life.
The suede lining creates a unique tactile experience, adding an element of surprise when the user opens the tote. This sensory design choice enhances the overall texture of the bag, making it feel closer to the user in use.
Future collections will continue this nature-inspired design language, bringing elements like mountains and minerals into more accessory styles. I plan to explore different materials and techniques, creating richer natural aesthetics and offering users fresh sensory experiences.
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