Saturday, 23 January 2010

Research into tote bags

The day after receiving the brief I used the Google search engine, specifically Google images to search for photographs of existing bags for life. I kept an open mind, looking at bags which were not just fashion related, for example food bags and school tote bags.

The images were printed and put in the sketch book for analysis. There were some recurring features in that there seemed to be a prominent use of hessian, most likely because of the durability of this fabric, and also because it is very stereotypically environmentally friendly, consequently it sets off a very eco-positive message.

Fabric swatches were used to identify how such an effect / look could be recreated with Missguided in mind. When analysing the bags most of them seemed to be portrait standing, with look flimsy fabric handles.

Many were incredibly basic, most likely due to a cheap retail price, therefore required to make profit. The graphic on the bag was often kept simple, yet bold; wording and lettering was often identified.

The most ‘interactive’ element noticed were the option to customise the bag for life, for example two had plastic pouches which allowed you to place photographic images in them; very much like a pouch in a wallet yet on the outside of the bag – making a personal statement.

The bag which inspired me most with regards to design was the virgin bag. This is because it seemed to have longevity, it was very rigid, with strong handles. The based was cardboard and could fold up, making the bag easily compactable and therefore convenient for storage.

What next?


Next I will move on to look at swing tags, seeing if I can establish any parallels to ensure continuity throughout design, and generally to make progress in broadening my understanding of swing tag design and information to be provided.

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