Accessories: Rachael Ruddick Luxury Leather Tie and Dye Bags

Rachael Ruddick [Africa Inspired]

[Image credit:  Tangerine, Mini Traveller – Rachael Ruddick]

The recent trend for the 1970’s and global fusion has seen a resurgence of tie and dye across fashion and lifestyle products and whilst browsing Selfridges online I came across a vividly coloured Tangerine clutch bag by Australian luxury leather goods and accessories brand Rachael Ruddick. Displaying a bold tie and dye pattern I immediately thought African inspired, however I do not know if Africa was the specific inspiration for the brand’s Spring/Summer 2012 piece.  When I see tie and dye I can’t help think of ancient African textile techniques; for example the Indigo dying methods of West Africa; however tie and dye also has it roots in many other cultures, and reached the height of global popularity in 1960s/1970s when it became synonymous with the American Hippie movement. In India, you will find the complex and highly intricate Bandhani method that dates back 5000 years and various the Shibori methods from Japan can be traced back to the 8th century.

[Image credits:  China Blue and Tangerine, Castlereagh Clutch – Rachael Ruddick]

Rachael Ruddick’s take has resulted in a sophisticated range of mini traveller and clutch bags in luxurious suede that comes in a choice of Tangerine or China Blue; whose colour I adore as it reminds me of Indigo textiles. Based in Sydney; Rachael Rosken Ruddick established Rachael Ruddick in 2008 after fifteen years spent working in the luxury sector, most notably for the LVHM group. Working in the luxury sector has had an impact on the brand, resulting in designs which see classic design, a love of travel and an appreciation of timeless style go into creating each collection; a process that constantly takes the creative team across the globe in search of inspiration from; high-quality craftsmanship and design to unique materials that get combined with high-quality Australian leathers. Rachael Ruddick’s ethos is to embody elegance and modernity in everything it creates and in addition to a ‘Forever’ range of permanent pieces, the company also produces four collections a year ensuring it meets the needs of its discerning clientele.

[Image credit: China Blue, Mini Traveller – Rachael Ruddick]

…tie and dye, a truly global textile

Additional details:
Current prices on the website: AUD$380-AUD$420; and on Selfridges online: £265 for the clutch bag
For further information and to purchase visit: www.rachaelruddick.com
Rachael Ruddick tie-dye bags can be purchased at Selfridges in London, visit: www.selfridges.com