Looking for some REALLY upmarket luggage? Look no farther!

Do you want a piece of luggage that no one at the airport carousel will mistake for their suitcase? Then check this out.

British fashion designer Sir Paul Smith and the design team at luxury luggage manufacturer Globe-Trotter have joined forces to create and launch two new cases that embody the marriage of form and function.

“The quintessential luggage collection epitomizes the quirky, eclectic nature of British style without compromising on the original designs or heritage,” the company said in an email to TheTravelPro, noting that the new cases mark the “continuation of [a] collaboration [that] demonstrates a mutual affinity for artisanal craftsmanship and impeccable design that exists between the two British brands.”

The new pieces, 20-inch and 30-inch trolley cases, are constructed of black vulcanized fiberboard, complemented by eight multi-colored corners, each of which is different than the others. Corner colors – navy, taupe, lime yellow, sage, burnt orange, peacock, burgundy, and bright red – are inspired by the Paul Smith “Signature Stripe.”

Cases are lined in a traditional Globe-Trotter blue/gray linen and come with Paul Smith “Signature Stripe” webbing straps to secure the cases and protect their contents.

Available in the U.S. starting July 3 at Paul Smith stores in New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, as well as online at PaulSmith.com, the 20-inch case will carry a retail price of £1,830 (US$2,330 at current exchange rates). The 30-inch case retails for £2,335, or US$2,975. Not for the faint of heart or weak of wallet.


My take

I honestly think these cases are quite attractive and, as Globe-Trotter has been making suitcases and travel accessories since 1897, I’m confident the cases are well-made. However…

As experienced travelers know, the function of a suitcase is to protect the contents. The case itself will take a few hits along the way, especially if its owner flies commercial. Baggage handlers aren’t known for their finesse when loading and unloading aircraft, and it would make me ill to see such a beautiful piece (to say nothing of "substantial investment") damaged.

But to those well-heeled individuals who have options other than flying commercial, or for whom a $3,000 suitcase isn’t that big an investment, I say: Please enjoy!

And safe travels to all.

Visit my main page at TheTravelPro.us for more news, reviews, and personal observations on the world of upmarket travel.



Photos provided by PaulSmith.com
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