FASHTALKS WITH GOT BAG

When did you know you wanted to become a designer?

I've always had a passion for design, but it truly crystallized when I realized the power of design to address environmental issues creatively and innovatively.

What is your earliest design memory for your brand? 

My earliest design memory for GOT BAG is sketching the concept for our first ocean plastic backpack on a napkin during a beach cleanup event. It was a simple yet powerful idea that marked the beginning of our journey.

What made you want to design backpacks?

Backpacks became our focus because they're versatile, and functional, and symbolize adventure and exploration. We saw them as a canvas to carry our message of sustainability and ocean conservation.

“We started with a small team and a big dream: to transform ocean plastic into high-quality products.”

How would you describe the style of your brand?

The style of our brand can be described as eco-chic. We blend functionality with minimalist aesthetics, using muted colors and distinctive design elements like our triangle pattern to create a unique, recognizable style.

Where do you find inspiration?

Inspiration comes from nature, the ocean, and the incredible stories of our global cleanup efforts. It's also drawn from the resilience and creativity of the communities we work with.

When was your first industry experience and how did it impact you?   

My first industry experience was witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of ocean plastic pollution during a coastal cleanup event. It was a pivotal moment that fueled my determination to make a difference.

What did the beginnings of GOT BAG look like?

The beginnings of GOT BAG were humble but full of passion. We started with a small team and a big dream: to transform ocean plastic into high-quality products. We gathered plastic waste from coastlines and began experimenting with materials and designs.

What is your favorite part about designing?

My favorite part about designing is the opportunity to turn a problem into a solution. Design allows us to create products that not only look great but also have a positive impact on the environment.

How important is sustainability to your brand? What sustainable measures has GOT BAG taken to better the environment?

Sustainability is paramount to our brand. We've developed a proprietary method to turn ocean plastic into durable fabrics for our products. We've also initiated cleanup projects, engaged local communities, and promoted recycling to reduce our environmental footprint.

“We're not just a brand; we're an organization dedicated to ocean conservation.”

What brand values are most important for GOT BAG?

Sustainability and innovation are at the core of GOT BAG. We value transparency, ethical practices, and our mission to clean up our oceans while creating stylish, eco-friendly products.

What was the toughest circumstance you overcame when just starting out your business? 

The toughest circumstance in our early days was convincing people that we could turn ocean plastic into high-quality products. Many doubted our vision, but we persevered through experimentation and innovation.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new designer?

My advice to new designers is to stay true to your vision, be resilient in the face of challenges, and embrace innovation. Design has the power to change the world.

What sets your brand apart from the rest?

What sets us apart is our vertical supply chain, where we collect, recycle, and create products from ocean plastic. We're not just a brand; we're an organization dedicated to ocean conservation.

What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?  

Our biggest accomplishment is recovering and recycling over 1,900,000 pounds of ocean plastic waste. It's a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact.

What do you envision for the future of your brand?

We envision expanding our product range, reaching more customers, and scaling our cleanup efforts globally. We want to be a beacon of sustainable design and ocean conservation.

What is the most important thing you would like your brand to be recognized for?

We want to be recognized for our dedication to cleaning up our oceans and creating stylish, eco-friendly products that empower consumers to make a difference.

What should customers expect to see next from GOT BAG?

Customers can expect innovative new products, expanded cleanup efforts, and even greater transparency from GOT BAG. We're always pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.