In this day and age where even designers like Alberta Ferretti are turning to limited edition collaborations, keeping up with all of the industry’s special projects is no easy task. One of the most exciting new collaborations, however, may come as a surprise. Tumi, best known for its premium luggage, has teamed up with famed graffiti artist John “Crash” Matos for four graffiti-inspired pieces. Only 1,000 pieces of each of the four styles were produced in addition to an iPhone case, and all just went on sale. Invest in one of the suitcases and no longer will you have to struggle to identify your black travel bag from the countless others – or risk someone accidentally (or not) taking yours.
Bright and colorful, the designs sold under the name “Tumi Tag Limited Edition Collection” reflect Crash’s high-impact aesthetic and will no doubt become collector’s items. Crash has been expressing himself through graffiti since he was 13 and quickly gained recognition for his stunning New York City subway murals. By the 1980s, he had exhibits across the United States and abroad and has created guitars for Eric Clapton, which the legendary artist has used while performing on tour. As for the Tumi collection, in addition to showcasing a portion of the artist’s new artwork on the exterior, the interior of each bag prominently features one of four working drawings created by Crash, and include the unique edition number that authenticates the case as a distinct piece in the collection.
The Tumi Tag collection includes four packing cases: a 20” international carry-on, a two-wheeled 20” international carry-on, a 25” medium trip packing case, and a 29” extended trip packing case. Prices range from $45 to $595.