Fugoo Cult Bag: A Revolutionary Handbag Design

Combining Protection and Liberty of Shape

Throughout her research on the history and future of handbags, designer Susanne Leitner discovered the untapped potential of hardshell handbags. Inspired by this revelation, she created the Fugoo Cult Bag, a unique and innovative handbag that combines optimum protection of contents with the freedom to explore new shapes and materials.

The Fugoo Cult Bag stands out from other handbags with its hardshell construction, offering superior protection for valuable contents such as smartphones and other electronic devices. Unlike traditional softshell bags, the hardshell design allows for the integration of functional elements like handles and locks directly into the bag's shape.

One of the key strengths of the Fugoo Cult Bag is its versatility in material selection and design. With the use of materials like wood, glass, or metal, the bag's surface can be shaped in various ways, allowing for unique and eye-catching aesthetics.

The bag's construction consists of two half spheres forming the outer hull, with a further sphere segment creating the inner compartment. Two half-circle dividers separate the carrying area from the main compartment, with one divider housing the retractable strap mechanism. The second divider acts as a stopper to prevent the extensive opening of both half spheres. The inner sphere shell and the first half sphere together form the fillable case of the bag.

The Fugoo Cult Bag is available in two standard sizes: 16 cm and 18 cm in diameter. It features a magnetic latch inside the handle opening, allowing for easy access to the compartment when pulled open. Closing the bag is as simple as pushing the two half spheres together until the magnetic latch clicks into place.

Designed to be carried by hand or over the shoulder, the Fugoo Cult Bag offers a retractable strap mechanism called the JoJo. The strap can be easily pulled out when needed and automatically retracts into its compartment when not in use.

The Fugoo Cult Bag project began in 2011 and was first presented to the public in 2012. Despite facing budget constraints, designer Susanne Leitner acquired the necessary manual skills to produce these bags herself, overcoming a significant challenge in the process.

This revolutionary handbag design combines the unique shape of a globe with the functionality of a woman's handbag. With its versatile surface options, the Fugoo Cult Bag is a must-have for fashion aficionados looking for a blend of protection and style.

The Fugoo Cult Bag was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fashion and Travel Accessories Design category in 2013. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Susanne Leitner
Image Credits: Susanne Leitner
Project Team Members: Susanne Leitner
Project Name: Fugoo Cult Bag
Project Client: Susanne Leitner


Fugoo Cult Bag IMG #2
Fugoo Cult Bag IMG #3
Fugoo Cult Bag IMG #4
Fugoo Cult Bag IMG #5
Fugoo Cult Bag IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant