Since its founding, Akris stands for refined ready-to-wear for independent women around the world. In 2009, Creative Director Albert Kriemler decided to add handbags to the collection. The approach: Functionality is Beautiful.
While researching visual vocabulary for Akris accessories, a trapezoidal pavilion caught Albert’s eye. Built by a young Mexican architect, Tatiana Bilbao, it was recognized as one of the 17 pavilions in the Jinhua Architecture Park near Shanghai, China. In a symbolic way, its shape spelled “A” to Albert Kriemler. The trapezoid became the logo that stays true to the understated and simple allure of the house. Since then, it has emerged as the key visual of Akris, and is now expressed in shape of clasps, buckles, and details on both ready-to-wear and accessories.
In essence, the Ai is a tote bag, able to carry your laptop and documents or shopping. When it is closed, with the top corners folded like origami and fastened with the custom closure, the trapezoidal shape is created, giving it an architectural appeal. When carried in this sharp shape, the Ai has a much smaller top opening, keeping your belongings safe. The Ai bag is a truly extraordinary handbag that fully lives up to Albert’s belief that “functionality is beautiful.”
3 convertible looks can be created: rectangular shopper, pure trapezoid tote, and signature tote with turn lock.
There are two different variations of the Ai: A messenger bag with shoulder strap and top handles, and a shoulder bag with longer top handles.
At Akris, fabric is always first. Truly unique materials are used to create some of the signature Akris bags. Woven horsehair is a rarefied fabric that is refined, ultra-lightweight, resilient yet animal friendly. Like the Techno Trapezoid fabric, it fully lives up to the belief that functionality is beautiful.
