http://www.shoebuy.com/baggallini-msl890-mini-sling/770580/1631165?cm_mmc=googleproductads_pla-_-none-_-none-_-none
The two primary design ideas my partner and I have come up with involve a pouch that remains towards the midsection of the body, similar to a sling or passport bag. The design would have to be modified to accommodate a water bottle or other closed cylindrical container. In deciding on these style inspirations, we have considered the following questions:
How to make a bag that is casual, but not tourist?
How to make the bag aesthetically pleasing?
How to the bag big enough to hold essentials but not large enough to be an obstruction?
How to make it durable?
Material considerations:
Nylon – Weather proof, potentially.
Polyester- Water will roll off initially, but not weather proof.
Also, we understand that portability is a large consideration with this bag, since it needs to be something that can easily be opened and used on the go. Here are a few examples of bags that are easily foldable:
http://www.dhgate.com/product/large-strawberry-shopping-bag-eco-friendly/238106306.html
http://www.thisnext.com/item/F08D2DDC/Longchamp-Small-Folding
Both of these bags convert from being small and easily stored to serving a very practical function. It would be ideal to have our model also collapse or fold down in some way.
Overall, we like the slingback style, since it can be worn in the front or back for a user. It is also pretty stylish and athletic. However, we would make some modifications. We want to explore different materials such as nylon or polyester to make the bag water-resistant if not water proof. We also want to create a space in the bag to easily put a water bottle or other beverage container, and we want to give the user an option to fold the bag for easy storage.
Priscilla Q&A:
Is foldability necessary?
No, but it might be a good idea.
Square bottom or no square bottom?
It would be cool if it flipped up when no bottle was is in it.
General advice from Priscilla:
- Keep bag away from sides
- Around the trunk better than around the neck
I like the idea of foldability, it would make it smaller and easier to transport when not using the device. I would look into treating polyester to make it water resistant as a possible option for a material.
I appreciate your attention to aesthetics in the design process because I think it’s an important factor for something that is meant to be worn. I would suggest looking into strap designs that don’t obstruct free movement but still provide comfort for extended wear.
I agree with Jamie! Your attention to ~aesthetic~ will make this product something people actually want to buy and use on a daily basis. How would you integrate in the sleeve for a water bottle/cylindrical container, where would you put it, and how would you balance the rest of the pack?
I really like the focus on fabrics and the water elements. Definitely something to look at, especially when discussing comfort, price, aesthetic..etc. I wonder how water proof it has to be though. Are everyday backpacks and purses particularly waterproof or should the focus be more on looks?
I love these ideas! I definitely think that it feels tough to find an aesthetically pleasing design that works because the bags that seem to be sleek and easily accessible have a distinct “tourist” association. Maybe a bag that is a bit chunkier/cooler-looking could be secured with a very subtle waist strap.