Ally started making bags in the year 2000 on the kitchen table. The first pieces were women’s bags, made of leather. After 20 years in clothing, working with leather and bags was all a new adventure. The construction techniques used in garments gave a softer individuality to the product which was quite unique and particular to the brand.

In 2003 the idea of men’s bags was considered frankly ridiculous. Nobody thought that any self-respecting man would ever be seen with a bag.

The word, ‘manbag’ was always derisory.

The idea of a backpack came up “I thought they were under rated; it certainly wasn’t a fashion item and I really liked those ones that are quite big and worn by French school children.’ The result was the Frank, which was a backpack with a difference, with its square outline and big zip across the top so that the opening was wide. The parallel top handles give it the distinctively recognisable appearance.

Early Frank came with a single front pocket, no laptop section and not much base padding.

Look below and see some changes.

Have you considered the number of elements involved in making Frank

Below you can count 19 pieces making up the outside shell

25 different leather pieces