Ladies Bottlebag

The template for this shopper made of vegetable tanned, lightly waxed cowhide was the original of a bottle bag, as they have already produced Harold’s in the 1950s and 60s. At first glance, the Bottlebag appears to be simply made of two large leather cuts sewn together on edge, but it comes with useful details that the original did not have. The new edition now closes with a full-width zipper and has a small slip pocket inside. A second layer of leather reinforces the punched-out handles, which are comfortable to hold even when fully loaded - the bag was originally designed for three 1-liter bottles. The Bottlebag can also now be carried over the shoulder or "crossbody" by means of a strap. Both ends are sewn to the back so that the bag fits close to the body. Unlined processed, the Bottlebag brings only 700 g on the scale and is therefore quite light.

Harold’ has its leather goods designed in Germany and manufactured in a Colombian manufactory. The fruitful cooperation goes back to the mid-1980s. Eventually, it involves more than usual: Based on legal employment contracts, the collaboration provides the Columbian workers with reliable working conditions, ensures their coverage in health and accident insurances, and contributes to a pension scheme. Therefore, many of the employees have been working in the company for more than 20 years. Over the years, they have accumulated relevant expertise and experience in leather processing. That’s not a given in South America’s leather goods industry: Typical for the sector is a high proportion of migrant workers and fluctuations in the workforce. No less impressive is Harold’s conscientious handling of the extensive safety regulations: The working conditions meet European standards, for example, by putting forward muffled acoustics, adequate floor space and exemplary cleanliness. A large part of the machinery originates in Europe as well. The leather comes from nearby kept cattle grazing outdoors all year round, as is customary in South America. The tanned leather’s surface still shows the natural grain and traces of the animal’s life, such as mosquito bites or small cracks, and soon the patina typical of leather will form on it. Harold’s has the lining fabrics and metal parts produced by partner companies based close to the Colombian manufactory.

Please note that the bag is unlined, so the velour on the inside may initially give off fluff or rub off, as with other leathers. The dark colour on the outside may rub off on light coloured clothing.