Sailmaker Ratsey & Lapthorn launches handcrafted accessories
British brand Ratsey & Lapthorn_ the world_s oldest sailmaker_ is expanding into the lifestyle sector with a line of handcrafted leather and canvas bags inspired by its unique heritage.
The expansion is described as a “bold new chapter” for the heritage brand_ which has made sails for some of the world_s most iconic vessels_ including Lord Nelson_s HMS Victory_ John F Kennedy_s Manitou_ the Gucci family_s Creole and British and American challengers for the America_s Cup.
Under the stewardship of former seasoned fund manager Simon Brazier (chairman) and sailing industry veteran Jim Hartley (chief executive)_ the new premium accessories collection comprises styles that echo functional pieces from its archive_ celebrating both the spirit of classic sailing and the beauty of its craftsmanship honed over nearly 250 years of continuous operation.
The collection has been designed to highlight the brand_s “deep but lesser-known history as a maker of bags_” with Ratsey & Lapthorn producing some of the earliest precursors of the modern tote_ dating back to the late 19th century. Originally fashioned from decommissioned sails and surplus cloth_ these were used to transport coal and ice to ships in harbour.
The newly designed range_ in collaboration with UK-based artisans_ including Ratsey and Lapthorn_s own sailmakers on the Isle of Wight_ is described as a “natural extension” of the brand_s legacy in both form and function_ with each style inspired by authentic and utilitarian pieces in the brand_s archive.
The launch collection comprises of eight styles_ made in small_ numbered editions_ which have been handmade in England and Italy. Each of the bags draws inspiration from the world of sailing and utilises the same heritage techniques and materials_ such as hand-woven cord and individually tied knots_ to hand-sewn brass eyelets and intricate rats_ tails. Selected styles are customisable with bespoke sailors_ knot charms_ and all include embedded NFC technology enabling traceability.
Ratsey & Lapthorn expands into luxury lifestyle sector with bag collection
Commenting on the collection launch_ Hartley said in a statement: "For over 200 years_ Ratsey & Lapthorn have been custodians of a living craft_ passed down meticulously from master to apprentice.
“We believe in a quality and soul that comes only from the human hand_ and we are resolute in our commitment to keeping these skills alive for the future. Breathing new life into our long heritage in bags is a critical part of this effort.”
Highlights include the _Ditty__ a bucket silhouette_ priced at 2_000 pounds_ which has a structured leather base_ drawstring rope closure_ and linen canvas outer. The bag is constructed by hand in Somerset by British craftswoman Katie Robarts-Arnold before heading to Ratsey_s sailmakers to insert eight brass eyelets and refine the leather base_ before being finished by Sue Pennison_ a member of the International Guild of Knot Tyers_ who hand-makes the cord_ ties the lanyard handle and fastens the ropework to the bag.
Other key looks include the _Ratsey_ structured canvas tote with leather handles_ a sturdy Italian leather base and diamond stitching reinforcement_ the _Ratpack_ a versatile duffel shape bag inspired by the stackable bags used by crew members in the mid-20th century_ and the _Rat_ clutch_ which offers a playful style that celebrates the brand_s unique red crescent sail marque in two sizes.
The debut collection is available direct-to-consumer via the brand_s website. Prices range from 300 to 2_000 pounds.
