Variations: A Modern Twist on Handbags

Designer Anna Moraitou pushes the boundaries of fashion with her innovative wooden handbag design

Moraitou's handbags stand out from the crowd due to their use of wooden and other rigid surfaces, which are rarely seen in fashion and travel accessories. These unconventional materials allow her to create new forms and shapes, while the patterns are not printed on fabrics but created through the texture and materiality of the surfaces themselves. Unlike traditional fabric bags that can lose their shape under the weight of their contents, the wooden surfaces of Moraitou's bags retain their structure, adding a touch of architectural elegance.

The realization of Moraitou's design involves careful selection of materials with increased resistance to bending. The panels are made from plywood and plexiglass, which transform the bag's appearance while maintaining the same design. The wooden panels are cut using a CNC cutter, then smoothed and polished with a protective clear finish, ensuring durability and longevity.

With dimensions of 280mm width, 440mm height, and 40mm depth, Moraitou's handbags are both stylish and practical. Weighing only 850 grams, they offer a lightweight option for fashion-forward individuals. The bags feature two rigid surfaces, ranging from 4mm to 6mm in thickness, depending on the material used. These surfaces are tied to the inner fabric pouch with a leather cord, allowing for easy removal and customization of the bag's appearance. The fabric can be changed or removed for washing, providing a versatile and functional design.

Moraitou's handbags made their debut in April 2014 at the "DESIGN LAB ATHENS" exhibition. Since then, they have garnered attention for their unique blend of architecture, geometry, and transformation. The use of wood and other unconventional materials challenges traditional notions of fashion, opening up new possibilities for designers and consumers alike.

Recognized for her innovative approach, Anna Moraitou's handbag design received the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2015. This award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Moraitou's handbags exemplify these qualities, integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics to provide fulfillment and positive feelings to their owners.