FEATURE | What is the Affecta bag that buyers of select stores nominate?
afecta meets select shops
What kind of bags do the buyers of select stores nominate for Affecta?
The bag brand "afecta" is known for its urban and sophisticated designs. The brand's high quality bags, which are not only well-designed, but also have functions and durability that are carefully considered from the user's point of view, are now attracting attention mainly from buyers at select stores. For this issue, we asked Ten Kobayashi, a buyer for B:MING by BEAMS, and Yusuke Sato, a buyer for URBAN RESEARCH, both of which carry the brand, why they support this bag brand. We found that there were various strong points that could not be simply put away with the word "attractive.
KOBAYASHI TEN Buyer of "B:Ming by BEAMS," which offers clean, sophisticated, urban style. He offers a wide variety of items that can be worn with a variety of lifestyles.
The speed of deciding on the handling was very fast.
As a buyer, how do you view the bag trend?
KobayashiThis year, sacoches were very popular. Following that, drawstring items are the ones to watch, and the downsizing of the bags we carry is likely to continue as before. However, this is limited to casual situations. In business situations, on the contrary, backpacks are popular. I have seen many people wearing these inorganic items with their suits. Therefore, "Affecta" is popular mainly among people who usually wear suits.
I see. Indeed, I have recently seen many people wearing suits with backpacks.
KobayashiI feel that people are looking for designs that are not completely for suits, but can be used both on and off the job. Items that can be used for work on weekdays, but that can also be worn on casual off-duty occasions. I think "Affecta" can be used in such a utilitarian way.
What was your impression of Afecta when you saw it for the first time?
KobayashiB:Ming by BEAMS" is a store that offers a comparatively clean style. At first glance, I thought the bag would fit the concept of such a store. Affecta" is not overly designed and seems easy to use. In addition, the price was also a big attraction. The total quality of the design, functions, and manufacturing is solid, but the prices are all around 10,000 yen. I was surprised at the gap between the two.
I see.
KobayashiB:Ming by BEAMS" has many stores in shopping malls. Therefore, many customers who visit our stores are also looking for a more cost-effective product. They can easily compare with other stores. But I thought "Affecta" was a brand that could appeal to such people. The decision to carry the brand was made very quickly.
This time, the backpack is a roll-top type, which is attractive for its capacity to hold a lot of stuff. The entrance opens securely so that you can throw in your luggage as you go. Even if you don't open the top part, there is a zipper on the side, through which you can take out your luggage.
What do you yourself look for in a bag?
KobayashiIt should have a solid capacity. As for design, I like something inorganic. I would say that the colors are subdued and there is no excessive decoration.
As for capacity, why?
KobayashiOf course, I carry my work-related items such as a PC, notebook, notes, writing utensils, etc., but I also carry extra items that I don't use... (laughs). (Laughs) For example, in winter, I carry an inner down jacket or a roll of clothes. (Laughs) I am basically a hot-weather person, but I carry them in my bag just in case I need them. I also carry an insulated bottle with me, as I carry drinks from home. I have a lot of luggage anyway (laughs).
You're a worrier (laughs).
KobayashiThat's right. I am also conscious of durability. We put our bags on the ground without paying attention to anything, so if they are delicate, we have to be careful. Therefore, sturdy construction and materials are important points when choosing a bag. Another requirement may be that it is stain resistant or hard to show.
An item that differentiates you from others and sets you apart from your friends.
What do you find attractive about the bag you were asked to carry this time?
KobayashiFirst, the material. It is stain-resistant and lightly water-repellent, so I am glad that it can be used tough. Also, the main compartment has a good capacity, so it can be used with ease even by me with a lot of luggage. The roll-top type is also attractive in that it allows me to put my luggage in roughly in a jiffy.
In addition to the main compartment, a small pocket is also included. It is recommended to put large items in the main compartment and small items in these pockets.
There is a storage holder for a PC on the back, which is convenient for those who carry a PC on a regular basis, as well as for those who go on business trips or vacations. It is also padded for excellent shock resistance.
KobayashiIn addition to that, it is also important to note that there is an opening on the side that leads to the main compartment. This feature is convenient when you want to quickly take out your luggage. There is also a storage holder for a PC, so to be honest, it would be a crime to ask for more in terms of functionality (laughs).
How was the comfort of carrying it on your back?
KobayashiThe straps are well cushioned and the center of gravity feels like it is firmly on my shoulders when I carry it, making it hard to sway. It is perfect. Moreover, when too much cushioning is sought, the bag tends to become thicker, but this is not the case with this item. I think another key point is that it looks sleek when carried on the back.
What do you think about the design?
KobayashiThe materials and colors are nice and inorganic. And the pattern, or rather the form, looks different from ordinary backpacks. It's a design that stands out even when placed in a store.
So it won't be buried when placed side by side with other backpacks.
KobayashiThat's right. If the colors are subdued, it is difficult to stand out and catch the customer's eye, but this bag has a unique atmosphere, in a good way, so it is easy to catch the eye.
Perhaps that can be said of the city as well.
KobayashiYes, it is. It can differentiate you from others. I think it's an item that can differentiate you from your friends.
What is the actual reaction in stores?
KobayashiAFFECTA handles more than just this item, but this item is by far the most popular. It is popular with a wide range of people, from students to businessmen.
In terms of coordination, what kind of clothes do you think this backpack would go with?
KobayashiLike the item I am wearing here, it matches functional clothing. Rather than a heavy-duty outdoor style, I think it would go well with a more sophisticated, modern look. I think the appeal of "Afecta" is that it has a somewhat urban and modern impression.
Sophisticated design, yet perfectly functional.
afecta MF-4 ¥9,800+TAX (B:Ming Life Store by BEAMS Cocoon City)
The backpack has a three-dimensional structure with a main compartment, a PC sleeve, and two pockets for small items. The roll-top design used for outdoor gear has been beautifully updated for a modern, sophisticated look.
