Oxgut founder Laura Le, who also works as a freelance producer at Google Brand Labs and other agencies, uses decommissioned fire hoses to design bags and home decor pieces. The Franchesi Tote featured here certainly passes the unique test.
Retailers however may have a few concerns before bringing it into their stores.
“I like the clean upcycled design” says Allison McGowan of Teich, a home goods boutique in the West Village. “I’ve learned that NYC customers want pockets in their totes, especially if they are open at the top as this one is. People want to be able to securely store valuables.”
While it’s ready for retail for the beach-going public in NorCal, one solution could be to produce a special edition for the NYC crowd with an extra pocket.
It could be all you need to get retail-ready for your favorite store.
Is it utilitarian?
While stores do stock novelty items, they prefer products that are not only unique, but also have regular use for personal purposes or as gifts.
For designers, stationary is a good place to start. Anything different from the Moleskin or Field Notes are great for grabbing a retailer’s attention.