Bespoke Alligator and Calfskin Travel Bag — Exclusively Made to Order

Bespoke travel bags created in my studio often attract attention and become a source of inspiration for new commissions. One of the previously completed works, a travel bag made from premium calfskin leather, resonated with its future owner and led to the idea of a personal version with individual accents.

The client turned out to be a discerning admirer of handcrafted work and top-grade materials. His choice of a red lining was entirely deliberate. The inner part of the bag is rarely visible, and this accent was intended not for display but for himself — a detail that creates a very personal and intimate feel from within.

As the material for key elements, matte alligator leather was chosen. It is noble and understated, without ostentation, but with a recognisable and unmistakable character. This leather was used for the handles, handle attachments, shoulder strap, front pocket, luggage tag, and even the frame of the internal zip pocket. These components form the silhouette and the tactile identity of the piece.

Functionality was just as important to the client as aesthetics. He clearly outlined the format: the bag had to meet cabin baggage size requirements and remain practical for travel. A removable and adjustable shoulder strap was an essential part of the request. The luggage tag, containing the owner’s personal information, reflects his approach to objects — even a utilitarian element is crafted with taste and attention to detail. Every part of this commission expresses a desire for practicality that does not conflict with aesthetics.

The bag is made from small-grain Italian calfskin and matte black alligator leather. The interior is lined with red “Oscar” fabric with a water- and stain-resistant finish. Key structural elements are reinforced with concealed Jaeger Reinforcements, providing shape retention and durability in use. All stitching is executed by hand using a saddle stitch with Meisi Super Fine waxed linen thread. RiRi zippers (Switzerland) ensure smooth performance and long-lasting function.

A custom protective cover was created for storage and travel, made of heavy red fabric and chèvre leather, tailored to fit the bag’s proportions and overall aesthetic. The cover closes with snaps and features a personalised alligator patch with an integrated NFC tag. A separate fabric pouch was made for the shoulder strap and accessories.

The bag, cover, and luggage tag are each equipped with NFC chips that lead to a dedicated web page documenting the story of this commission.

Details:

• Dimensions: 55 × 26 × 31 cm
• Main material: small-grain calfskin leather (Italy)
• Trimming: matte alligator leather (handles, attachments, strap, external pocket, tag, internal pocket frame)
• Lining: red Oscar fabric with water- and stain-resistant coating
• Zippers: RiRi (Switzerland), two-way zipper on the main compartment
• Shoulder strap: removable, adjustable
• Internal pockets: one zip pocket with alligator frame and two slip pockets

Additional elements:

• handle-keeper strap
• luggage tag with engraved personal data
• personalised alligator patches with NFC tags
• protective cover made from fabric and chèvre leather
• separate pouch for storing the shoulder strap