Moynat is one of the oldest suitcase manufacturers in Paris. Their first workshop was opened in Paris in 1849 by trunk makers Octavie and François Coulembier. They joined forces with a travel goods specialist called Pauline Moynat to open the first shop on the Avenue de l’Opera. Moynat was one of the first leather goods houses of its time. Known for its traditional know-how and handmade skills in custom-made luggage and travel goods, the house became known for its designs for cars, as well as technical innovations such as making suitcases lightweight and waterproof, and participation in various World Fairs.
When Nicholas Knightley joined Moynat last year as creative director, it marked a new chapter for the French handbag manufacturer. He plunged headlong into the job and redesigned six of the label’s most iconic handbags, including the Flori, Voyage, Little Suitcase and Wheel.
Inspired by vintage Moynat suitcases and inspired by the dawn of the automobile industry in the early 20th century, the cylindrical Wheel bag was modelled on spare tyre cases of the time. With a goatskin lining, a removable card holder and a detachable strap for multi-functionality, it’s still chic. A house classic, under the creative direction of Nicholas Knightley the updated style has managed to retain the brand’s heritage, modernising the iconic monogram for a new look that doesn’t feel dated.
“The Wheel was first created in 1907 and represents everything the brand stands for, and now it has been reimagined for modern day life,” says Knightley. – It has enough space for a smartphone, cosmetics bag and lipstick.”
