Pack it Up, Pack it In: Eastpak x Nicomede Talavera

Having hit the peak of my hype in the third grade with an aloha tie-dye print L.L.Bean joint (initials embroidered and the reflective front pocket band, obvi), my backpack game took something of a dive in my grown-up years. For those, like me, hoping to make the switch back to two-strap accessories, London-based menswear designer Nicomede Talavera’s third collaboration with renowned luggage giant Eastpak is the answer to your prayers.

Having previously worked with Raf Simons and Christopher Shannon, Eastpak tapped Nicomede, the then Central Saint Martins undergrad, in 2012. While the pair's previous collaborations have blended minimalist shapes with genius details including iridescent key chains and hidden magnetic pouches, its Spring/Summer 2014 efforts draw influence from the hard-edge color field paintings of Ellsworth Kelly. This season's structured but smooth leather backpacks and totes feature bold bands and blocks of color with clean silver hardware zippers, minimalist contrasts that exude the luxury the partnership has gained esteem for.

Shop all Eastpak x Nicomede Talavera HERE

UNTITLED 0110 LEATHER BACKPACK in white/green (styled with Raf Simons vertical colorblock Short-Sleeve Shirt in black/electric blue)

UNTITLED 0110 LEATHER BACKPACK in white/green

Untitled 0100 Leather Backpack in black/white

Untitled 0077 Tote in black/red