Among the "CINEMA JAPONESQUE" series announced in the spring of 2020, the rattan tote bag "CINEMA JAPONESQUE Tote Bag" and clutch bag are particularly popular.

So this time, we asked Ryoko Netsu, a SIRI SIRI staff member, about the rattan bag collection.

Delicate knitting of materials that are difficult to process

Rattan is also used for the earrings and bangles in the "ARABESQUE" series, but the tote bag and clutch bag in the "CINEMA JAPONESQUE" series are also made by the same craftsmen.

Netsu : What is different from the ARABESQUE series is the rattan used.In the ARABESQUE series, we used the core part, but this time we use the outer skin called "leather rattan".The characteristics of the leather rattan are: It should be smoother than the core, have a glossy finish, and be resistant to stains.By weaving this leather rattan into a sheet and finishing it with persimmon tannin, it gives an even softer and more natural impression.”

The rattan bag is finished with persimmon tannin.

Rattan has the characteristic of being able to create supple curves by wetting it, and this bag is also made by craftsmen bending and shaping the wet leather rattan sheet one by one with a delicate touch. The pattern on the front is also made of the same material.

In addition, the decorative weave on the bottom and opening of the bag is not only a decorative weave as a design, but also a reinforcement to prevent it from rubbing and losing its shape during use.

Netsu : “Bamboo is used for the mouthpiece and the handle of the tote bag. Bamboo is stronger than rattan and can support weight, but it is difficult to process. I hear that you had a hard time."

It is said that it is shaped by applying heat, but it can be deformed if it gets wet, so it is difficult to keep it in a beautiful shape.

We are also particular about joining the bamboo frame and the rattan body.

Netsu : “Usually, we use glue, but this time we used leather rattan to tie it together like a decoration. This material is also made of leather rattan, and the ends are woven into a ball and processed so that it can be caught in a metal ring.As with the hemp inner bag, the use of natural materials and the handiwork of craftsmen It's designed with care."

When you open the clutch, there is a handle string inside. A design that can be held by the handle as well as holding the bag body.

Craftsmanship that balances design and strength

This "CINEMA JAPONESQUE" series was born from the awareness of the Japanese aesthetic sense of Okamoto, a designer currently living in Switzerland. Therefore, at first, the bag was also intended to be made of bamboo, which strongly evokes Japan.

However, we realized that if we woven everything from bamboo by hand, it would be a high-class craft that would be exhibited in an art museum, and it would be difficult to use it daily. Therefore, a design was born that incorporates rattan and takes advantage of the advantages of both rattan and bamboo.

Netsu : Okamoto designed the clutch based on the image of a clasp, with the assumption that the clutch will be held and used.In order to increase strength, it was necessary to reinforce the bottom and corners. It was necessary to decide on the shape while making mistakes, and in the end, we woven leather rattan into the bottom and corners to give strength and at the same time create a round shape, with reinforcement being part of the design.

While pursuing ease of use, the tote is packed with the commitment of Mr. Okayasu, a rattan craftsman. Even with the same leather rattan sheet, there are various weaving methods such as wave weaving and Kagome weaving. Okamoto, while incorporating the craftsman's particulars, considers which weaving method is the best, and how to finish the joints in the back of each material. It is said that the shape has been dropped. ”

This rattan bag has a craftsman's technique that combines a design that combines materials such as woven rattan leather and bamboo with strength.

Examples of coordinating with basic outfits

A collection of wicker bags that are both flexible and practical. Netsu-san taught me how to coordinate everyday clothes.

The tote bag can be used not only for a long wallet, but also for other items such as a notebook.

A long wallet and a smartphone enter the clutch.

Dress neatly with Japanese clothes

Netsu: “Since the design is conscious of Japaneseness, how about matching mother-of-pearl accessories from the same “CINEMA JAPONESQUE” series with a kimono? I think it's a perfect outfit for a tea party or theater. ”

Connect with a dry beige tone

Netsu: I think you can create an oriental-style coordination with the wind and humidity by matching it with the clothes in collaboration with 'THE YARD'. Of course, even if it's not this outfit, it's nice to match it with a smooth dress. ”

Combined with transparent glass

Netsu “It goes well with SIRI SIRI’s glass accessories, and I especially love the combination with the Kiriko ring. Clutch is something you hold in your hand, so I think it looks very beautiful on your hand.”

Pair with a generous knit in winter

Netsu : Rattan may have a strong image of summer, but I think it goes well with knit, which is the same material that is woven. increase."

 

What did you think. Regardless of the season, use the rattan bag daily to update your everyday outfit.

・CINEMA JAPONESQUE Tote Bag product page
・CINEMA JAPONESQUE Clutch Bag product page