
First Look: Tommy Ton for Club Monaco Bag Collection
A FLARE contributor and top street-style photographer, Tommy Ton
has added designer to his list of accomplishments. The shutterbug makes
his first foray into design with a line of bags for Club Monaco (priced
from $195–$225, in stores March 20).
What inspired the design of this line?
"I really wanted to design very functional but durable bags that I could
use in my everyday life and also during fashion month. It's a very
selfish way to approach a project but knowing that I could share what I
desire in a bag and create something I felt was missing in the market
was very exciting. The design of both bags was intended for both sexes
-- I love the simple utilitarian design of them and they're easy to wear
and use."
Do you see these bags as unisex?
"Absolutely. The response has been great from my friends. I've discretely worn the bags without telling anyone they are the Club Monaco designs and they all immediately gravitated to them both -- especially my female friends with the backpack. I definitely see them as unisex."
What are the essential elements of a great handbag?
"Functionality, simplicity, durability and great design"