Pannier | SIWA

SIWA Pouch (Handbag)

The simple and practical unisex handbag fits all necessary leisure companions: cell phone, wallet, tissues, lipstick. The simple pouch is divided into two compartments and the strap length is adjustable by tying a loop. The understated shoulder bag is lightweight and goes with any outfit. The surface texture is reminiscent of paper, but the material is still very robust and water-resistant.

SIWA is a collaboration between the traditional washi paper manufacturer ONAO and the renowned industrial designer Naoto Fukasawa. SIWA means "wrinkle" and is washi read backward (literally: "Japanese paper"), both characteristics of SIWA products.
The durable and stylish pieces are made from Naoron, a special type of paper developed by ONAO, which consists of a mixture of wood pulp and synthetic fibers. It has the characteristic texture of paper, but does not tear as easily and is extremely water-resistant.
ONAO was founded in 1974 in Ichikawa Misato, Yamanashi Prefecture. The area is known for its over 1000-year history in papermaking. ONAO is a leader in the traditional production of Japanese paper and remains innovative through new creations such as the SIWA collection.

Naoto Fukasawa (born 1956) is an internationally renowned industrial designer. In the West, he is particularly known for his product design for the Japanese retail company Muji and for collaborations with companies such as Herman Miller, Alessi, and HAY.