2016 was a year of big moves and even bigger leaps of faith, and we couldn't be happier with how it all turned out! As we roll headfirst into a new year - we thought we would take a few moments and celebrate all the awesome that came in 2016.
#1: Crystalyn earned a coveted fellowship at the Brooklyn Fashion Design Accelerator, which is a hub for ethical fashion design. In addition to having a dedicated workspace with views of the Manhattan skyline - she will receive up to 3 years business mentorship and will grow her business alongside a powerful community of movers and shakers in the sustainable fashion scene.
#2: We increased our investment by 30% in using the massive resources of Manhattan's garment center, sourcing remnants and off-cuts of high-end materials and fabrics. Because we are a small and efficient company, we can make amazing designs with what other larger manufacturers couldn’t use. This type of upcycling gives us the freedom to experiment with new materials, minimize the impact of the leather industry and reduce climate change.
#4 We put our own spin on technology accessories by creating Headphone Tacos. They make life a little easier by keeping your cords tangle-free. Plus, these little beauties are created start to finish using materials found in New York's garment district.
What's not to love?
#5 Our 15 year anniversry! Back in June 2001, we never would have imagined how much our little company would grow - or how many happy customers we would make along the way. Since we got our start in Seattle - we returned to where it all began this summer, and had a big celebration in Seattle Center.
#6 We are fiercely made in USA but did you know that we are bi-coastal? We ramped-up our Seattle production! Since we have such huge following in the Pacific Northwest, we decided to make a batch of Black, Wine, and Butterscotch Metiers with one of our oldest sewing contractors. We couldn't be happier to be reunited with Ute in the heart of Seattle's SoDo neighborhood. And the bags look BEAUTIFUL!
#7 Our love of texture took the front seat this fall. We made a limited edition batch of Metier & cross body bags in Velvet & Tweed!
#8 At long last, we created a backpack that we would be proud to wear. Roomy but not too big, chic but still uber-durable. . .the Amélie backpack
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#9: We had a top-secret project thrown our way by our friends at FabScrap: create 10 new accessories using only leather scrap from a shoe factory. . Our bags made an appearance on "Shark Tank-like" Project Runway: Fashion Startup and (*spoiler alert!) these new designs will continue to roll out through 2017!
#10 Holiday Market at Chelsea Market! This year we broke tradition and didn't participate in Seattle's Urban Craft Uprising. Instead, landed a spot in our BIGGEST pop up show yet: Handmade Cavalcade- which is organized by EtsyNY. 5 days of a retail show in a tourist-heavy location was exhilarating! Plus we got interviewed by an up-and-coming new blog. . .but that's all we can say for now. (wink wink)
I purchased my Hobo bag years ago in Melbourne Australia and recently purchased a replacement strap online. I LOVE this bag! I use it daily and the new strap is perfect and easy to attach. Crystalyn's customer service via online chat was so helpful and lovely. I highly recommend- spread the word!
After more than 10 years of almost daily use, here is my tribute to one tough bag! It's held up beautifully to trips across the world and through the washing machine. It's been sat on, spilled on, jumped on by pets, stuffed to the max or crammed into other luggage with no issues at all, and is still lovely, soft and shiny, zero problems with zippers and hardware. I'm retiring my bag (discontinued style) bc it's earned it and has finally started to show minor wear...after all this time. Signed, a happy (and now much older) customer.
Honestly, I've lost count how many glazed fabric Crystalyn Kae bags I own. This one was definitely a want, versus need. Even though I already have one of her round bags with vintage (Boeing) fabric, this print was too cute to pass up. I'll definitely be taking it out to some events in autumn.
I love these SO much! I use two, one for sunglasses and one for regular glasses. They are perfect for travel and everyday use. I love them SO much that I have given two as gifts and just bought four more! They are well constructed and designed. The fabrics are unique, stylish, and functional.
The second I saw and felt this bag I knew I had to have it. I was shocked that it wasn’t leather because it’s sooo amazingly soft and beautiful. It’s classy and is my go-everywhere bag. It’s the perfect size and I absolutely LOVE it!! Thank you for making such a gorgeous bag, you are a true artist!
Your 2016 highlights are so inspiring! It’s wonderful to see your success along with all your hard work. xxo
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