ro | The Power of ro: Modernizing Your Suit
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March 13, 2015

ro | The Power of ro: Modernizing Your Suit



ro |ロー


Modernizing the Suit: The Power of ro


Their innovative ideas have been making waves.Reversible BagsKnown for their "reversible bags," ro is a New York-based bag brand. This time, we focus on the business style proposed by ro. We introduce six items made with materials unique to Italy. As casualizing suits becomes the norm, ro's modern designs create an image that is both intelligent and creative.


Text by FUJITA Mayu (OPENERS)
Photo by TAKADA Midzuho



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From New York to Italy: Designs Expand Further



Minimalist styles with no unnecessary ornamentation, sharp color variations… at first glance, they exude a masculine impression, but the designer is actually a woman. Meticulous attention to detail prioritizes usability. Designer Yvonne Lo started the brand in 1999 after a successful career in women's apparel design in New York. She has now relocated to Italy, drawing new inspiration and further expanding her creative expression.



Elevate Two Essential Items for the Business Scene



As you know, Italy is a world-leading producer of leather, inheriting traditional techniques. Among them, the quality of bridle leather, meticulously tanned by artisans and taking up to a year and a half to complete, is exceptionally high. Originally made for horse tack, this leather is durable and develops a rich patina over time, its charm lying in its aging process. It softens, conforms, and gains a unique luster. The pleasure of "raising" your own leather appeals to the masculine spirit.



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New York Tote (H 390 x W 365 x D 105 mm) ¥50,400


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We take a closer look at the business tote from ro's high-end series, made with this bridle leather. While using bridle leather, which has a firm texture that gives a substantial impression, the finish is not overly rugged, offering a well-balanced sense of ease. The top is switched to fine, soft calf leather, and the subtly visible striped lining when accessing the bag adds an accent. The classic buckle handle elegantly ties the whole piece together. With a wide opening for easy access to documents and laptops, finely divided interior pockets, and a detachable shoulder strap for two-way use, its practicality is undeniable. It's a design that pairs well with both suits and jacket-and-pants styles.



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Cambridge Card Holder (H 70 x W 100 mm) ¥13,650


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The bi-color card case, also made from bridle leather, has a small gimmick. This card case actually slides open like a drawer. The sophisticated design and playful action are truly the essence of ro's craftsmanship. It's sure to leave an impression on the other person during a business card exchange! It will also serve as a conversation starter. Available in vertical and horizontal designs. A card case gains character with every encounter. Enjoy the aging process that parallels your own growth.



Achieve a Sleek Travel Style with Design & Functionality



The "G32PVC" material from Limonta, used for trolley cases and travel wallets. The Italian company Limonta is a long-established fabric manufacturer that supplies materials to popular brands like Felisi, Daniel & Bob, and Orobianco, as well as high-end brands such as Prada and Bottega Veneta. Their craftsmanship, which emphasizes not only aesthetic beauty but also functionality, commands immense trust. This material was originally custom-made for ro by Limonta. "PVC" stands for polyvinyl chloride. This material, with a PVC coating applied to the surface of canvas, offers a luxurious appearance along with resistance to scratches and dirt, and excellent durability and water resistance.



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Genova II Trolley (H 500 x W 350 x D 190 mm) ¥72,450


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The popular trolley case in the collection has been subtly updated for improved usability. Made from Limonta's "G32PVC," its substantial, matte sheen resembles chic black leather. All the matte silver zippers are original to ro. If you look closely at the sliders, you'll notice the subtly engraved brand logo. It doesn't detract from the sharp design, yet it doesn't forget a playful touch. This understated detail is precisely what makes it uniquely ro. Practical ideas are incorporated into the functionality, making it even more user-friendly! The included tote bag is made from neoprene, also used in wetsuits. Its moderate cushioning and water resistance make it ideal for carrying electronics or changes of clothes. With its chic appearance and convenient features, it's sure to complete your stylish travel ensemble.



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Coated Canvas Sydney Checkpoint (H 245 x W 125 mm) ¥25,200


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And essential for travel is a travel wallet that can hold passports and boarding passes. For travelers who frequently need to present their passports, a wallet that can also store it is a must-have item. ro proposes two types of travel wallets with a "British Trad" theme. The zippered type, which also includes a coin case, can neatly store not only passports but also pens and notebooks. It is particularly recommended for businessmen who travel with a lot of luggage and tend to take notes. The materials used are Limonta's durable "G32PVC," known for its high durability, and bridle leather, which gains character with use. These wallets offer a fresh image with a touch of mature sophistication.

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