Eduardo Wongvalle x The Bridge
Leather goods leader The Bridge has revealed a first look at the results of calling in former Armani advisor Eduardo Wongvalle. The Italian firm approached the designer, who has previously worked at the likes of Bottega Veneta and Christian Dior, to create a ten-piece bespoke menswear collection for AW14. What followed from Wongvalle is a capsule line that includes messenger bags, shoppers, briefcases, overnight cases and a backpack. The Bridge, founded in Italy in 1969, transformed the leather goods market with its famed craftsmanship. The company became known for its Anglo-Tuscan style and was soon established in the modern luxury sector. Wongvalle entered into the project with the idea of designing pieces reminiscent of Tuscan saddlery. In an interview exclusive to FashionBeans, he said: “It is a traditional heritage collection inspired by equestrian life and designed for a person who enjoys travelling.” The collection highlights the serial bag creator’s clean sensibility and attention to detail: “They use all these incredible Artisan methods, with interesting threads and stitching, which is reflective of saddle-wear; I really like that about The Bridge.” The line works in details such as visible stitching, moccasin craftsmanship, contrasting buckles and exterior pockets. Linings feature regimental style jacquard, intended to be distinct from the leather. Wongvalle insists that certain elements of Tuscan heritage were maintained within the capsule collection: “The Bridge still has the aged feel to their work, which has commonly disappeared in modern day leather production; they concentrate on the details and produce the work by hand.” Mirroring the approach of his own label, the designer also made sure that the accessories were produced with practicality and a personal affinity with the customer: “I am attracted by luxury accessories which, despite their uniqueness, are worn everyday and live together with those who choose them like loyal partners.” The line comprises of subtle mixes of taupe green, rich dark solid browns, tan leather and subdued greys with a variety of finishes. The Eduardo Wongvalle capsule collection will be available at The Bridge flagship stores, online and outlets including Harrods from the second half of July 2014. Prices range between £650 – £1,300.
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Eduardo Wongvalle x The Bridge Bag Collection
