Switchbag: A Symphony of Form, Function, and Color

Stephanie Branco's Backpack Design Marries Art with Utility

Stephanie Branco's latest creation, the Switchbag, stands as a testament to the fusion of art and functionality. Drawing on the geometric precision of architecture and the iconic works of Piet Mondrian, the Switchbag is not merely a carrying accessory but a portable narrative of personal expression. The backpack's exterior, minimalist and composed, belies an interior of magnetic, colorful compartments that reveal a hidden vibrancy akin to the concealed facets of an individual's character.

Amidst a global pandemic, the Switchbag emerged as a symbol of mental health awareness, reflecting the multifaceted personas we present to the world. Its design is a deliberate contrast: the outer simplicity representing our public face, while the interior bursts with color and imagination, much like our private selves. The Switchbag is a chameleon of sorts, effortlessly transforming from a backpack to an office, a nomadic abode, or even an artistic piece that organizes and decorates one's space.

The realization of this innovative design was achieved through meticulous handcrafting, utilizing upcycled leather to construct a piece that is as sustainable as it is stylish. With dimensions of 280 mm in width, 150 mm in depth, and 350 mm in height, the Switchbag is a compact yet capacious companion for the modern nomad. Its handstitched nature ensures that each piece is unique, embodying the care and craftsmanship of its creator.

Functionality meets flexibility in the Switchbag's design. The detachable interior boxes, equipped with magnets, can be rearranged or even utilized independently, serving as decorative elements that cater to the user's preferences and necessities. This interactive aspect of the design invites users to engage with the Switchbag, tailoring it to their daily lives and moods.

The journey of the Switchbag from concept to reality began in Lisbon in June 2022, with the support of the European Commission and Worth Project II. It has since graced the Design Milan Week in April 2023, showcasing its global appeal and design excellence. The research behind the Switchbag was extensive, involving design trends, 3D and 2D modeling, and the creation of three hand-sewn prototypes, culminating in a design that is both beautiful and multifunctional.

Overcoming the challenges of crafting the Switchbag, particularly in perfecting the molds for the compartments and managing the behavior of leather as a material, Stephanie Branco has delivered a piece that is as resilient as it is refined. The Switchbag, awarded the Bronze in the A' Fashion and Travel Accessories Design Award in 2024, is a celebration of creativity and adaptability, reflecting the essence of its designer and the spirit of its wearers.

With intellectual property rights secured by ASA Leather Work in 2023, the Switchbag is not only a design marvel but also a protected work of art. Its images, captured by Maria Louro, and video by Amanda Naughton, further amplify the Switchbag's visual story, inviting viewers to appreciate its design harmony.