A Childhood Spark
My first encounter with the magic of unconventional style began with childhood Saturdays spent with my grandfather, Jack.
Jack was soft-spoken, with a wry sense of humor and a knack for wisecracks that always made me laugh. But when it came to style, he was fearless. Clashing prints, bold plaids, and his signature white perforated leather shoes with a matching belt — his wardrobe was unapologetically his own. Most people didn’t “get” it, but I adored it.
Even at five years old, Jack taught me something invaluable: style doesn’t have to follow rules. It can be playful, surprising, and deeply personal.
From Grandpa’s Pants to My First Bags
Fast-forward to 2001, when I launched my very first collection of handbags. Without hesitation, I reached for plaid. I cut into vintage pant legs that reminded me of Grandpa Jack’s bold trousers, and stitched them into my first batch of hobo bags.
Those plaid hobos became the foundation of Crystalyn Kae Accessories — a starting point for what has now grown into 25 years of designing and making handbags. Plaid, in all its boldness, felt like the perfect way to carry Grandpa's influence forward.
The Return of Plaid
Today, I’m thrilled to bring plaid back into the spotlight. But this time, the fabrics are even more special. Each bolt comes from rare, rescued upholstery textiles — limited runs of plaids that were never meant for handbags but have found a new life in our studio.
Because these textiles are vintage, there’s only enough for a handful of bags. When the last yard is gone, it’s gone for good. That scarcity makes every piece feel like a little treasure — no two are quite alike, and each one carries its own story.
Built to Last, Designed to Look Better with Every Wear
Like every Crystalyn Kae bag, these plaid bags aren’t just made to be pretty. They’re stitched with industrial-strength equipment, designed to endure daily adventures — from cross-town commutes to cross-country travel. And the best part? They only look better with every wear.
Plaid might remind me of my grandfather’s unconventional style, but to me, it’s also a symbol of resilience and joy: fabric that’s bold enough to stand out, yet timeless enough to stay with you for decades.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Grandpa Jack may not have realized it, but his quirky fashion sense planted the seed for everything I do today. This new plaid collection is my way of honoring that legacy: bold, playful, unapologetic, and built to last.
If you’ve ever been mad for plaid, now’s the time — these limited-edition bags won’t be around for long.
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