I’m sure I’m not the only one who faces this dilemma whenever I pack for a vacation or a work trip. So do I bring my “it” bag that wears a ton when it’s empty and is prone to scratches or do I settle for a bag that I know can undergo the stress of travelling but doesn’t exactly score high in the style department?
Well, Hong Kong based label Mischa’s line of bags designed for the globetrotter’s lifestyle is the solution to your packing woes. Founder Michelle Lai first debuted Mischa with hand crafted clutches made from vintage Japanese kimono material. This mix of East meets West won the brand a cult following but fans started requesting Lai for bags that the busy active women could throw everything they need for work, play and the gym in.
A range of luggage was created in 2010 to cater to the Mischa fans’ wishlist and the Travel Series’ totes and accessories have become travel essentials for the smart jetsetting women. Here’s why:
Mischa's Jet Set tote (left) and Overnighter (right) are ideal for travelling anywhere in the world
Mischa bags are lightweight
Even the larger styles like the Jet Set tote or Overnighter duffle, weigh almost nothing so you can happily throw in your laptop and that hefty novel along with all your travel essentials without giving your shoulders much grief when you commute.
Mischa bags can take a beating
The coated canvas with calf leather trims that the Mischa pieces are made from are silk-screen printed and finished with a weatherproof coating. So you don’t have to worry if you are ever caught in the rain anywhere in the world. Plus, the totes make for great beach bags too!
Autumn Winter 2014's collection sees a new camo twist on the hexagon motif. Centre: CDG Pouch in Camouflage Orchid, $180
Mischa bags are chic
In the same way you would with classic arm candy, you can spot a Mischa bag straightaway by the iconic interlocking hexagon print. Inspired by the sea tortoise’s shell, the motif symbolises longevity and timelessness and translates to the timeless appeal of the Travel Series. This season, Lai experiments with camouflage and incorporates the unlikely print with the hexagon motif for a youthful feel.
The exclusive Kapok x Mischa Jet Set tote in Kapok's colourways with the store's insignia embossed
Mischa bags are cool
Like every “hip” brand out there, the label has chalked up a few noteworthy collaborations. For Spring Summer 2014, Mischa joined forces with Lane Crawford to launch a limited edition collection and this season, the label collaborates again with cool multi-label store Kapok for a special Kapok x Mischa Jet Set tote.
The Kapok x Mischa Jet Set tote retails for $289 at Kapok at the National Design Center, 111 Middle Road. Find Mischa at Kapok at the National Design Center; Kapok Tools at Tangs Orchard; Soon Lee at 73 Haji Lane; Cumulus at #02-14 Wheelock Place. For more information, go to www.mischadesigns.com/.