Alfa Romeo Concept Designer Bags Presented

The British division of Alfa Romeo revealed today two concept designer bag for its MiTo, designed by Central Saint Martins College (CSM) students William Hendry and Tamara Elliot, and which celebrate the company’s centenary. CSM has produced the likes of Stella McCartney, Giles Deacon and the late Alexander McQueen.

“I’ve been hugely impressed by the designs the students came up with following the brief. Alfa Romeo is a classic Italian brand with lots of history, so research was an important part of what they had to do,” stated Course director at Central St Martins, Professor Louise Wilson OBE. “The two final designs by William and Tamara deserved to win the competition and the bags look great.”

Inspired by the MiTo and Alfa Romeo’s centenary, the bags could be produced in a limited range of both in the near future. Further details are to be revealed closer to the market launch.

“I was attracted to the Alfa Romeo project because it enabled me to gain an insight into an area of design that I had previously had little opportunity to discover,” Hendry explained in a statement for the press. “I was impressed by the way in which ergonomics influences Alfa's own design processes; whether it be a coat pocket or a steering wheel, the important thing is that form follows function.”

Hendry’s design represents a modern interpretation of vintage luggage, while Elliot’s doubles as a suit carry case and reflects the longevity of Alfa’s rich styling pedigree.

“I wanted to design a bag that worked with the car and the requirements of travelling. I was inspired by classic garment and boot bags and I developed these ideas into a bag that changes shape and function to be versatile enough to use in every situation,” said Elliot. “I kept the exterior simple and classic so that the design has longevity and will not date, to reflect the Alfa Romeo style.”