Design is not merely about the aesthetics of a product. It should enhance functionality, innovate, and make the product more accessible to everyone. It's a comprehensive solution for a product from material, through construction, ergonomics, to the color of the zipper. Design should also convey a certain message. At BAAGL, we consider it paramount for children to feel good, healthy, and grow up with courage.
To understand what is meant by the word design or to know the current trends among satchels and backpacks, we asked our two resident designers in their Prague studio.
How does a new collection of school satchels and backpacks actually come about?
Self-reflection is primarily important, followed by research. We find out the trends for the upcoming season and which color combinations will be IN. In the next phase, it's necessary to evaluate the previous collection, identify what motifs worked, and build from there. Construction changes are a chapter on their own, as we follow the motto: "there's always room for improvement," striving to bring technical innovations in every collection.
What inspires you when creating a collection?
Children's fashion, interesting material combinations, and the adult world. Lately, the children's fashion industry has been coming up with miniatures of adult clothing. Visually, it's beginning to differ less from classic ready-to-wear. With children's satchels, reflecting current trends is more complex, the design needs to be more timeless, as a child carries a satchel for several years. We believe that a satchel should be such a friend to a child that it cultivates a positive relationship with school.
What are the latest trends?
The fundamental element is ergonomics, which I hope never goes out of fashion. It's most important for a child to feel comfortable and to grow healthily. Regarding materials, we use high-quality water-resistant polyester, which forms the basis for all satchels and backpacks. For back reinforcement, we unequivocally choose 3D spacer mesh fabric, ensuring excellent air circulation. We also try to experiment with other materials, like polyurethane or plush, where a satchel can become a favorite plush pet. And then there are various charms, flashlights, and other little things that embellish a satchel or backpack and attract customer attention.
What does the word DESIGN mean to you?
It's necessary to realize that design is not just about what "coat the backpack wears." We must primarily focus on construction, which has high demands and undergoes strict testing to achieve a certificate of harmlessness and a healthy product intended for schoolchildren. Good or bad design can affect people's lives. It's a big responsibility.
Which satchel or backpack is among your favorites?
Among satchels, I would mention the ZIPPY PANDA motif, which is absolutely unique compared to the competition. Unconventional materials and a cute motif make Panda the queen among satchels. For backpacks, I am proud of our SKATE range, where the entire visual resembles adult backpacks, which is important for children at the transition between the first and second stages. Childish motifs simply stop working for them. At the same time, the backpack is sufficiently reinforced in the back, bottom, and provides enough space and pockets for every schoolchild. I personally like the ZIPPY NASA satchel the most, which is on the border of a utilitarian object and a toy. Its extravagant processing is unmistakable and bold like our entire brand.
