La Coucou Multifunctional Handbag

Press Kit

Unique Properties

La Coucou is a multi-functional and versatile handbag that, given its innovative design, can be converted from crossbody to belt, neck and clutch bag. The bag has four D-rings instead of two to make the chain/strap conversion. La Coucou comes with a removable gold heart lock and matching key. Created from thoughtfully sourced luxury materials, La Coucou carries a message of self-love and empowerment that women everywhere can enjoy with its multiple looks and functionality.

Dimensions & Packaging

Dimensions: 6.75 inches W X 5 inches H X 2.5 inches D (17 X 12 x 6 cm)
Gold Chain 43.3 inches (110 cm) this measurement makes it possible for the bag to be transformed.

Tags

Handbag, Bag, Clutch, Crossbody, Beltbag, Necklace, Luxury, Accessory, Multifunctional Design, Fashion

Production Technology

The experimentation process of the multi functional aspect of the bag is included in the PDF presentation.

Materials of the bag include: 100 percent full-grained calf leather (cuir de veau). Gold Metal Hardware. Gold Heart Locket. YKK Zipper. Gutterman threads. Removable Strap 43 inches (can be worn cross-body, neck, and belt bag). Front zipper pocket. Top zip closure. Includes signature satin lining and dust bag. Handmade in Paris, France.

Design Challenge

Some of the challenges encountered relate to the actual mechanics and measurements needed to obtain the exact measurement that would make the chain go swiftly through the D-rings and be able to have enough length needed for each transformation. Other difficulties in production included finding the right artisans and manufacturing experts in Paris. In terms of photography and product styling, it was a creative challenge to portray La Coucou effectively in every style it could be transformed.

Project Duration

The original idea of a multifunctional handbag started in 2013, while the designer lived in New York. The project was then revisited in Paris, France in early April 2019. The first prototype migrated again and was finished in New York, with the research and prototyping stage lasting two months. The final prototype of La Coucou was developed between October and December 2020 in Paris, France.

Operation Flow

The placement of the D-rings on the back of La Coucou allow the wearer to transform the product according to their wishes. The chain can be connected to the top two D-rings, allowing the bag to be carried on the shoulder, or strapped across the four D-rings, transforming the length of the chain. Playing with the different ways the chain can be manipulated to attach onto the rings lets the wearer use La Coucou in multiple styles, such as a crossbody bag, a belt-bag, and a necklace. The chain may also be removed completely, letting La Coucou’s design stand alone as a clutch.

Research

Actual experience from the designer's work in fashion houses in Paris and market research provided data regarding a multifunctional accessory such as La Coucou. Business and personal travel also drove the need for such a product. The handbag was created with the objectives of versatility and durability, embodying a conscious style that can be used for many different purposes. In order to make this idea a reality, simulations, prototyping and experimentation were done to make the mechanics of the bag possible.

Inspiration

La Coucou was born from a journey of self-love and a relentless passion for design. Inspired while living in New York City, the designer underwent a complete transformation through real life chronicles of personal growth and professional hurdles. It was this reinvention that led her to the creation of La Coucou after working for over a decade in finance. Exploring the concept of Multi Lux Versatility, she designed a bag with multi-use, durability, and versatility in mind – without compromising on style, resulting in a product anyone can take anywhere. One bag, multiple possibilities.

Image Credits

Main image is Image #1 Photographer Nicolas Richez, 2020.
Optional Image #1 Photographer Nicolas Richez, 2020.
Optional Image #2 Photographer Nicolas Richez, 2020.
Optional Image #3 Photographer Nicolas Richez, 2020.
Optional Image #4 Photographer Nicolas Richez, 2020.
Video Eda Aguilar, Anjela Sevilla, Daniela Sanchez, Ghazal Farzaneh

Colors of La Coucou Multifunctional Handbag