INDIGO GETS GREEN
Eco-friendly handbag collection a collaboration with Matt & Nat
If you’ve wandered into an Indigo bookstore in recent years, chances are you’ve noticed they now sell a lot more than just books.
From home decor items to fragrant candles and even bodycare, the Canadian retailer has ramped up its retail game — and that includes a hefty offering of handbags and accessories from Montreal-based brand Matt & Nat.
Recently, the two companies collaborated on an exclusive collection of accessories that celebrates vegan-friendly goods — and their shared Canadian connection, of course.
Sarah Deitcher, the category manager for fashion at Indigo, chatted about the collection, on-trend colours and Canadian brands.
Q How did the partnership come about?
A We have been working with Matt & Nat for almost five years, and have really become the national destination for the brand with the country’s biggest assortment offering. The timing of Canada’s 150th was a natural fit to celebrate the partnership with styles that were exclusively ours. We reached out to the Matt & Nat team about a year ago with the idea of a collaboration; they loved it and we went from there.
Q What made Matt & Nat a good fit for your brand?
A As a proud Canadian company, we feel strongly about supporting other Canadian brands — there’s so much talent in our country. Matt & Nat really resonates with the Indigo customer — when you buy a Matt & Nat bag, you know you’re going to get a beautiful, eco-friendly bag that you can feel good about carrying at an affordable price.
Q What can people expect to find in the collection?
A This is a curated capsule collection of 11 gorgeous bags, exclusive to Indigo. Together we dove into the Matt & Nat archives to bring back their most popular and iconic silhouettes. Fans can find classic colours like black and chili, as well as very modern colours like mauve and storm, which is a dove grey. Like all Matt & Nat bags, these are vegan leather and the inner lining is made from recycled water bottles. We have a range of styles from backpacks, crossbodies and wristlets, to totes and wallets. There’s something for everyone in this collection.
Q Was there a particular inspiration for the colour palette?
A We knew we needed black and chili as timeless staples, but also wanted to integrate trendier shades so added in storm and mauve, a dusty rose. Pink in general is having a big moment right now — we’re seeing it everywhere from fashion to home decor. Incorporating a pink bag is an easy way to update your wardrobe and make it feel fresh.
Q Which piece do you anticipate being the most popular, and why?
A The Abiko in mauve. Clutches are a major trend and this bag translates so beautifully in the dusty pink hue.