Sisters Kimberly and Nancy Wu have been cited as part of the anti-“It” bag movement, but they resist labeling their handbags as “minimalist.” They try to produce bags that are wanted, needed, and serve a purpose. They focus on ergonomics and usability, rather than creating bags that will sell well for a limited period of time. Their bags are intended to appeal to women who generally do not like handbags.
Building Block handbags have minimal hardware and instead focus on the basic features of the bags. They are designed with geometric shapes and exposed features such as rubber tubing, unfinished wooden objects, clear acrylic Lucite, and utility canvas. The sisters draw inspiration from shapes, buildings, and product packaging.
The Wus were bored with what they viewed as a “throwaway” fashion mentality and wanted to create functional bags that were not necessarily trendy. They started designing handbags four years ago. Kimberly was designing concept cars for Honda in Tokyo at the time, and Nancy was designing shoes for Nike in Portland.
They exchanged sketches over Skype. Kimberly sought out materials, made the bags, and advertised them on her blog. They attracted the interest of stores and relocated to Los Angeles, where they grew up. The Wus found manufacturers in Taiwan and opened a studio and concept-store space with Kristin Dickson-Okuda and Shin Okuda of Iko Iko.
The sisters create 3-D mockups in their studio and send them to their manufacturer. Building Block handbags are now sold at several concept stores and online boutiques. The sisters hope to expand their product offerings to include furniture, watches, and men’s accessories.
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