For the most part, I would venture to say that wooden accessories do not immediately conjure up images of high fashion or thoughts of luxuriousness. When I think of wood, I think of trees and the earth – not high-end and ultra fashionable accessories. But skilled fashion designers have an astounding ability to create an item out of materials that others may quickly pass as being unworkable or impractical to create something extraordinary. Is it the challenge that comes with manipulating a material that others may view as difficult or too simple, that allows designers to push beyond the realms of their own creativity? Perhaps. Whatever the case may be, I appreciate what some designers are able to produce out of wood. Featured here is Port 1961's Wooden Clutch by designer Tia Cibani whose extensive world travels and appreciation of cultures and art are visibly seen in her line. Made of American Black Walnut, the super smooth, shapely and minimalist clutch allows the wood grain and color to take center stage. Dimensions: 11" x 6".
Price: $630 See below for other notable designers who have created works of wearable art with wood.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Jill Jan 12th 2008 4:42PM
I would never spend that much money on a purse, but I love the clamshell. It is gorgeous, and multipurpose. You can always use it as a weapon, lol! Wonder how sturdy it is. Hmmmmm...
Retired Woodworker Jan 12th 2008 5:14PM
It's really wonderful that designers are re-discovering the natural beauty, durability, and warmth of wood for personal use and adornment. Pricey? Yes, but consider the prices of well-executed pieces of museum-quality wood sculpture of equal size. The clutch depicted in the article is a bargain at $630 and has the advantage of not having to languish on a pedestal, but can be carried about in a functional way. Bravo!
CC Jan 12th 2008 6:24PM
If my new date misbehaves, I don't have to go far looking for a blunt object to throw. The purse is lovely though. Great idea, but the price will keep me from buying it.
Tom Jan 12th 2008 6:43PM
Watch out for fires !!!!!!!!!!!!
Baskts Jan 12th 2008 6:56PM
The Longaberger Company has been making wooden purses for 35 years! You can see them online at: www.longaberger.com
Jo Jan 12th 2008 7:26PM
The wooden purse is stunning but not practical there is no give in it like leather. The cost is not unreasonable given the workmanship, and considering I have seen designer purses that are more costly but are actually ugly in my opinion.
I bought my husband a wooden brief case some tome ago out of teak. He loves it, I use a wood cream on it and it looks as good as new.
Wood one of our most renewable resourses.
A lumberman's wife
Barb Salinas Jan 12th 2008 7:32PM
The bag doesn't seem practical to me. What if it gets wet? Rain or snow or a wet bartop would do it a lot of damage.
Also, if it's going to be made of wood, it's probably going to be heavy. A clutch seems like a bad idea.
What if it falls? Will it break?
It's nice-looking, but not $00-plus nice.
Anne Jan 13th 2008 12:41PM
leave the trees where they belong.
IN THE GROUND!!!
do any of you realize what would happen if there were no trees?
Kimberly Chalos Jan 13th 2008 8:04AM
Like many handbags you are making a statement when you carry a beautiful and unique handbag like the wooden clutch. I have been making hand carved handbags for 3 years now and I can tell you the price is resonable for the time it takes to make one. My handbags are very durable and easy to fix if a mishap should happen. They are signed and dated just like a piece of art and are made to last a lifetime! Small rubber feet on the bottom of bag prevents any damage from spills. Most believe since it's wood it will be too heavy, but using the right wood and careful carving will ensure that the handbag will not be too heavy. You can check out my handbags at http://www.handcarvedhandbags.com