FASHIONINU:

MalcolmFontier

On a Quest to Find The Perfect Bag?

If you’re anything like me you’re always on a quest to find the perfect bag.  The bag that can hold everything you need, take you from day to night, from the ultra chic hip event to the boardroom if need be.  I’m a hobo but I don’t want to look like it.  So in a perfect world my bag should be good looking but functional.

Well, if you’re like me you know that often times function takes a back seat to style or vice versa.  And yes, I usually end up opting for function and have to suffer the consequences of people not realizing how stylish I actually am on the inside.

Enter Atlanta, GA based designer Malcolm Fontier and his workable sense of functional style.  It’s amazing what a few clean lines and a neutral color can do.  His unisex creations with ample internal and external pockets bring sexy dignity back to the world of the professional creatives who need to fit their laptop, digital camera, dvr camera, digital voice recorder, pad, pens, wallet, cards, make-up bag, a couple usb cables, maybe a mic cord or two, cell phone and ipod all into one bag.  One bag where the strap doesn’t slip or cut into your shoulders making you wish you had chosen another profession. 

Thank goodness for Malcolm’s background in production and hardware design.  Because of his background he has been able to craft very functional, comfortable bag and wallet collections that are enviornmentally friendly.  That beautiful looking leather like material that comprises the outer shell of their bags is PU (polyurethane) coated canvas that looks, feels and behaves like leather.  But thankfully isn’t.

UTM sat down with (via phone) co-founder Gabrielle Kennedy to find out more about the company and the idea behind it.  The idea for the bags was conceptualized in 2006 when Malcom and Gabrielle (married April of 09) realized something very special about each other.   They realized that Malcolm had the gift of design and that Gabrielle had a very keen hold of marketing and PR.  They combined forces and traversed the globe looking for acceptable, earth friendly materials. 

Malcolm then set about making a line that was truly focused on the user’s experience.

Today you can order their products from their website www.malcolmfontier.com  and various boutiques around the country.  Do yourself a favor and check out their Mojito wallet.  It’s great for those who want to run in and out of parties/events without the hassle of carrying a purse.

“It’s for those that want to travel light- for the night, weekend, or life. Holds up to 4 cards and elastic strap makes sure they're not going anywhere. Side pocket works like a money clip- without the clip.”

Gabrielle’s enthusiasm for their company and products is catchy to say the least.  The company sounds like a great place to purchase from and work for.

 

I wonder if they’re hiring.

 

By: Mut Asheru