Ever wondered why 94.8 per cent of us cling so resolutely to the idea of black luggage? Like it’s a rule. A little ribbon perhaps, a sliver of sticky tape, a logo of course, a scratch or a kick print, the only variations allowed to differentiate my black from your black suitcase. The consequences of black’s last modern bastion are played out in thousands of those tiny offices tucked in behind airport luggage carousels around the world: “I’m terribly sorry mademoiselle, it appears your awfully chic black Armani carryon is enroute to Uzbekistan.” And similar, wretched scenarios. (Cue hiccuppy sobbing sounds from behind tiny office door…)
It’s a mystery, a phenomenon that flummoxed, then intrigued Melbourne based accessory and luggage designer Catherine Manuell. Years ago she began to design and release collections of luggage and travel related accoutrements in anything but black: wild colours and joyfully fashioned patterns the flambouyant-at-heart could match or mash into travel caravans NEVER likely to result in hiccupy sobs or wretched scenarios in tiny airport offices. “Wheeling colourful luggage makes you feel fashionably complete,” Miss Manuell says. “We get reports of our customers meeting nice people they otherwise would not have met – receiving nice comments…”Manuell’s latest collection includes low key designs like the tapestry style “Balzac” and high key patterned luggage like the pretty flower shell beauty bag and matching wheeled suitcase, pictured. Most also come with clear plastic zipped preservers to protect from knocks and scratches. Nice touch.
“Wheeling colourful luggage makes you feel fashionably complete..”
But, though Miss Manuell has made a significant dent in our black luggage habit, she still has her work cut out: “I think it is time these fashionable travellers took the colour/print risk!”
Checklist: Balzac Bag in red or black (yes, you can cling to black and have pattern too) with black leather handles $159, Personal shell beauty bag $149, Large Wheely $170, (03) 9499 9844, www.catherinemanuelldesign.com.
Janice Breen Burns, jbb@voxfrock.com.au
