Tyler Franch designs 'The Annie' bag for Chatelaine's birthday
Who better to share a birthday with than Roots, another iconic Canadian brand. Roots is turning 40 this year (we're 85, but who's counting?), so the company asked Chatelaine assistant fashion editor and Roots fan Tyler Franch to design a bag to celebrate both of our anniversaries.
Tyler put together a mood board filled with fashion inspirations, fabric swatches and, crucially, a photo of a Roots brogue. The strong yet feminine details of the brogue were the starting point for the Annie bag, named for Tyler's stylish grandmother. "I wanted the bag to appeal to all the women I know. It had to be on trend yet practical, with plenty of room and smart pockets to keep everything organized," says Tyler. A
fter many trips to meet Roots design director Diane Bald at the factory, a light- and flora-spilled space where workers actually stitch the leather by hand, Tyler watched the bag come to life. He and Roots leather guru Karl Kowalewski chose black box leather for its sturdiness, durability and sheen. (It's from a tannery that produces leather for one of Europe's most exclusive luxury brands.) Tyler adjusted the length of the kiltie fringe and added details, like leather tabs on the sides to make the bag expandable and handles long enough to go over your arm. Oh, and you'll find a cross-body strap tucked inside, so it's also hands free when you want it to be!
To purchase the Annie bag, $398, visit Roots.
Watch: Chatelaine's Tyler Franch and Diane Bald from Roots, creating "The Annie" bag:
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