Whether it’s a bicycle or something you wear, I find more charm in things that have been well-used than in things that are brand new and shiny.
A customer came into the shop the other day asking to replace a FredrikPackers messenger bag they had bought back when Circles had just moved from Fukiage to Chiyoda. That bag had truly lived a full life—the buckle was broken and the Cordura nylon fabric was so faded you couldn’t even tell what the original color had been. I was deeply moved that rather than looking for something new, they specifically wanted one in the same shape. Since we no longer carry that brand, it was time for WELLDONE’s Inocchi to step in; he handmade a replica of the same size and form, adding his own unique WellDone essence to it.
Like many of us, I find that in today’s world overflowing with things, it’s hard to actually "use things up" because our eyes are constantly drawn to the next new thing.
I’m talking about things that are durable enough not to break easily, that you won’t get tired of, and that you can grow attached to for a long time. They become almost like a part of your body—to the point where you feel uneasy if they aren’t nearby. The Hungarian brand Blind Chic. is exactly that kind of brand.
This bag brand was started in Budapest, Hungary, in the summer of 2011, after fashion designer and cyclist Julia and graphic designer Neza met during a road trip from Ljubljana, Slovenia, to Budapest. Blind Chic. is based in a corner of ART QUARTER BUDAPEST (AQB), a studio complex that provides a space for various artists to express themselves.
They love handmade goods and craft their products every day with the hope of fostering the bicycle community in their city through the bags they create. These bags, beautifully sewn by women’s hands, have a somewhat "lo-fi" construction, but they feature a unique design—different from any bag I’ve used before—by intentionally combining water-repellent, warm cotton canvas and carefully tanned leather with the contrasting look of water-resistant zippers.
This time, we’ve received two backpacks of different sizes, a hip bag, and a handlebar bag that can also be used as a shoulder bag.
The Dookie is a spacious 30L roll-top backpack. It’s highly functional, featuring three external pockets of two different shapes. The upper pocket has gussets for bulkier items, while the lower pocket is perfect for valuables like your wallet or keys that you want to grab quickly without taking off the bag. With a chest strap for a secure hold, it’s easy to use for long rides or hiking.
The Bub, with a 12L capacity, is the most compact bag in the lineup, making it perfect for everyday use—even for women. It will surely satisfy active folks who want to enjoy cycling or light hiking. The gusseted outer pocket is ideal for valuables like your wallet or phone, and the water-resistant zipper adds an accent that gives it a lot of character.
The Goliath is a voluminous roll-top waist bag. You can wear it crossbody like a messenger bag or wear it boldly around your waist—it fits securely either way. It also features a top strap for easy carrying.
The Handee Bear is a handlebar bag made from waxed canvas. It’s incredibly convenient for storing small items or valuables like a camera or phone. Using the included leather strap, you can also convert it into a shoulder bag to carry it with you.
Blind Chic. bags are handmade with care, one piece at a time.
I hope you’ll come by and pick one up to see and try it on for yourself.