SYDNEY: Knitwear and "fashion desirables" specialist Pol has diversified into the accessories market for winter 09. The Pol accessories collection - comprising eight pieces including belts and bags - was designed to complement Pol's collection of printed knits, confirmed label founder and designer Sam Jones.
Jones, who teamed up with accessories designer Liza Barlow to create the range, said it also filled a gap in the market, particularly in terms of its bags.
"We felt that a lot of the bags out there were very tricked up, with a lot of buckles, studs and metallic detailing. We really wanted the beauty of the range to rely on the design of each bag, the quality of the leather and the colour blocking."
Jones and Barlow had designed the bags - including clutch, tote and classic purse styles - as well as the belts, to reflect a hand crafted aesthetic, finished by Pol's quirky bird logo.
With belts starting at $139 and bags ranging from $189 to $449 for the hero piece - a patent leather bag available in natural or red - the range was intended to sit alongside Pol clothing in its 45 nationwide stockists, as well as targeting accessories boutiques, Jones said.
Pol accessories and knitwear would also be available from a new online store due for launch in mid-September, she said, adding the label would continue to gradually expand its offer.
"We're taking it very slowly. The motivation for designing something is always because we love it."