Nearly a year
ago, while covering the WSA Trade Show in Vegas, I discovered a
newly launched handbag line called
BODHI. I was initially drawn in
by the calm décor of the suite (each brand takes up a room in The
Venetian Hotel during this trade show) and the tranquil voice of the
brand’s representative. Upon further peeking it became clear that
all this was an extension of
BODHI bags, which quickly captivated
all of my attention for 45 minutes (quite a lot of time to devote to
one brand during a trade show).
The name BODHI means supreme knowledge or enlightenment in
Buddhism. In keeping with the philosophy of the brand, each
handbag comes with
an empowering quote found on the inner lining. Moreover,
much like a clear mind, BODHI bags are well edited – never an
excess stitch, embellishment or hardware placement. The astute
craftsmanship was evident even in that first collection for spring
2008.
In September,
atop the
Caledonia Building
in NYC’s Meatpacking District where
BODHI creative and design
directors Joseph Janus lives, I previewed the
spring/summer 2009
assortment of powerful-colored bags in tequila
gold, electric
yellow,
tangerine and camellia
purple and vintage-inspires
silhouettes like the I-cant-live-without Safety Pin
Clutch. Other
standouts included the accordion bags, which are ideal for travel,
and the Clothes Pin
Tote. Speaking of travel, an array of carry-on
pieces will be available. Spring 2009 will also be the launch of a
men's collection, favored by uber fashion stylist Phillip Bloch who
showed up to the preview sporting his favorite Bodhi
messenger bag. Enjoy the preview.
Check out my
blog My Bag-a-licious Life to see what celebrities attended the
preview and let me know what you think of the line.
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