On the first night of October, local leather goods company Fiveleft held its 10th anniversary runway show. Located at a simplistic and warmly lit venue, the event featured pulsating music, drinks, an artisan marshmallow stand and many of the brand's products on display. For most of the evening, the building was close to capacity, with a sizable crowd in attendance.
The artist behind Fiveleft is Lincoln Heller, an Emily Carr graduate originally from Washington state. Each bag is the only one of its kind and crafted from vegetable tanned leather, as well as textured with re-purposed materials — anything from bike parts to rope. The products of Fiveleft are made at the historic 1000 Parker Street Studios — a converted warehouse that is open each year to the public during the annual Eastside Culture Crawl.
The runway show featured strong designs in celebration of the occasion. The runway itself was in a unique square-shape that made good usage of the space. The bags displayed were diverse in colour, shape and size — including satchels and double strap bags small enough to be worn by children, as evidenced by one of their younger model. Along one wall, five distinct bags were for auction, each featuring beautiful designs that were bold yet functional with an assortment of clasps and compartments.
There is a distinctly Pacific Northwest feel to Fiveleft’s products. One bag hanging in a window frame, which attracted much attention from passersby, was called The Rainbucket, and it was a nude and black piece shaped like its namesake.
Aside from bags, Fiveleft also had many of their other products on display, all made of leather. One table featured wallets, coasters and unique mason jar holders — leather handles that turned jars into easier handled cups.
All of their products are exceptionally well-designed and very complimentary to a variety of outfits and wardrobe styles. One caveat, however, is that their prices could be a stretch for the student on a budget. Each bag is uniquely designed and made right in Vancouver, so they regularly command over three hundred dollars. However, they are incredibly durable and well-made. The product should last the owner many years, even here on the rainy west coast.
Share this article
