Not Yet in Japan: Why Kyiv's Bagllet Keeps Crafting Bags, Even in a War Zone

Ievgen Bernos, trained in air traffic control, and Tymofii Holosniak, who has a background in engineering. These two individuals with different expertise founded the bag brand Bagllet in Kyiv, Ukraine, developing products under a unique system that integrates manufacturing and sales.

For them, the act of creation is 'a process of making decisions and giving them form within a constantly changing environment.' Let's delve into their story, guided by their own words, to trace their practices and philosophy—from the brand's origins and its relationship with its home city of Kyiv, to its approach to designing products built to last.

Bagllet: Born from the Intersection of Different Expertise

Leather is a material that resists the idea of being 'finished.' It reveals its true essence not at the moment of its creation but through the passage of time—as it is used, touched, worn, and transformed.

This philosophy of time is the foundation of the craftsmanship at Kyiv-based Bagllet. The brand's name itself is a portmanteau, a blend of the words "Bag" and "Wallet."

When it was founded in 2013, the brand's origins were in crafting minimalist backpacks, like the "B105," and leather wallets. The name itself reflects its evolution, as it gradually expanded its domain to include handbags designed for the contemporary woman.

"What's crucial for us is to focus on forms, proportions, and colors that exist independently of trends," they explain.

The "timeless beauty" they talk about isn't just about looking back at the past. It's a conscious decision to step away from the short-lived cycles of fashion, aiming to preserve only the "shapes" that can endure the test of time. They strip away the superfluous, select honest materials, and adhere to a restrained color palette. This isn't about minimizing expression; it's a careful curation to concentrate the product's inherent meaning.

Currently, Ievgen oversees everything from design and production to visual direction, while Tymofii handles sales and customer relations. This division of labor is the very structure that brings their philosophy to life. With his training as an air traffic controller, Ievgen places a high value on procedural accuracy and discipline.

"I inherited the basics of working with leather and other materials from my grandfather. From him, I learned a deep respect for craftsmanship and the value of consistently high-quality work," he says.

Meanwhile, Tymofii, with his engineering background, takes a pragmatic look at "how products reach customers and how they are used."

"I learned the importance of engaging directly with end-users and understanding the commercial side of things. A system that integrates production, design, and sales is the foundation of what we do," he adds.

Design, Redefined in War-Torn Kyiv

It has been about a decade since the brand's launch. In that time, their home city of Kyiv has been caught in a whirlwind of turmoil. Yet, the duo has remained, continuing to place the city's rhythm at the core of their brand's identity and design.

They see Kyiv as "a city of multi-layered culture and restrained aesthetics." Within this context, Bagllet delivers a "simplicity of elegance" that never fades. They create basic, genuine leather accessories for women who are mindful of themselves and the world around them, and who cherish quality and reliability in the things they own.

A prime example of this is their bestseller, the "BG101." Its half-moon shape, which showcases the brand's signature curves, fits snugly against the body even during the rush of city life, adding an elegant touch to any ensemble.

Another key piece, the "BG127" crossbody bag, features a minimalist square silhouette. It effortlessly complements any outfit while allowing you to carry your essentials in style.

"Kyiv is a fast-paced, high-density city. The fit and weight balance of our bags, which are designed to be comfortable whether you're on public transport or in a car, have been honed as a direct response to the city's daily rhythm."

Since the full-scale invasion in 2022, they have also had to face an extreme question: "Under what conditions can we even continue to create?"

"All of Ukraine is under constant threat. This reality has forced us to bolster our resilience and our ability to keep functioning in uncertain situations. Our production facility is now energy-independent. That’s less of a strategy and more of a necessary response to the reality of frequent blackouts and heating cuts."

The pace of the city and the harsh conditions of war. These are the forces that have shaped Bagllet's pragmatic and robust design, one that strips everything down to the essentials.

A Philosophy of Bags Designed to Surrender to Time

This philosophy of 'restraint' directly translates into an obsession with quality. For them, 'design' isn't just a concept; it’s the most crucial value, encompassing the entire process from the initial sketch to the final finishing touches.

"We don't just pick the finest materials, durable hardware, and sturdy, water-repellent leather. With every single stitch, we ensure these materials are in perfect harmony with our sewing techniques. This approach guarantees our products retain their original beauty for years to come, never letting their owners down."

From the lining to the reinforcements, no distinction is made between the visible and the unseen. Everything is designed as a single, integrated system, built on the premise that it will be used and loved over time.

"Our bags are never truly finished when they're brand new. The softening of the leather, the developing patina, and the subtle shifts in shape aren't flaws—they are the memories of its journey with you."

A bag shouldn't be a status symbol that defines a person, but rather a foundation that quietly harmonizes with their life's rhythm. The allure of its design won't fade with fleeting trends, and the product's inherent strength ensures its longevity.

Time is the ultimate test of an object's true worth. "Bagllet" embraces this trial, offering a form that is designed to evolve. They don't rush to a finished state or lock in a fixed meaning; they entrust it to time. This sincere philosophy is the very essence of what they define as 'timeless'.