Studio Visit: Mystic Sister
Loring was nice enough to let me photograph her working in her downtown Astoria studio, where she makes bags and wallets under the one-woman brand Mystic Sister. I was there to pick up some bags for the shop (see all the new arrivals here), and she also gifted the shop with the gorgeous trailing philodendron seen in the background of this photo! Why is she so sweet??
Loring designs bags that are versatile, functional and durable while drawing on feminine and classic vintage designs. Here, she's working on a new crossbody bag called The Rambler, inspired by classic saddle bags. I snagged an early mini prototype of this design and I LOVE it. Reminds me of some of my favorite vintage Coach bag designs, but it has Loring's unique spin.
Loring prizes quality and uses solid brass hardware from US manufacturers and high quality American leathers selected for their lower environmental impact, rich colors and unique textures, such as bison leather, vegetable tanned leather and by-product leather. Rolls of leather are nestled in corners of her studio, where she also shows off her tried and true designs and new prototypes.
Every aspect of Mystic Sister production is done by hand, by Loring.
She's always dreaming up new designs, like this in-progress under the shoulder bag that is still in it's prototype phase. I'm excited to see how it will turn out! Find her work here at Short Wave, on her website and at occasional markets around the Pacific Northwest.
Thanks for showing us around, Loring!
