eather. We all know that purchasing leather products is an investment—-but a guaranteed investment. Fine leather is known for its exceptional durability, texture and style. Like fine wine, it just gets better with age. That is, if its quality is up to par.
If you're going to splurge on that trendy leather jacket, why plunk down all that cash if you're only going to wear it for one season? Chances are you won't be able to see the aging process on that sexy black number you bought this year because it's not going to be sexy next year. I know I have a closet full of neglected clothing that just couldn't keep up but when it comes to leather, it has to transcend the fashion world barriers. Say goodbye to keeping up with short-lived trends and hello to eternal classic simplicity.
m0851 is famous for creating quality, luxurious and fashionable leather goods and clothing. Established in 1987, m0851 (formerly known as Rugby North America) is based in Montreal, Canada. 'Rugby', as they were then called, started out by producing lines that were characteristically rugged and casual. With their growing popularity and versatility, the lines have become more refined and have since grown to include fashionable clothing in addition to their signature collection of bags, purses and accessories.
Renowned for their classical (with a modern twist) minimalist style, m0851 has a devoted following. With five locations (two in Montreal; one in Toronto; one in New York City and one in Japan) m0851 is an international fashion label. Their devout followers know that they have found a good thing in m0851, and how great their items look with just about anything.
Even with the evolution in their design, the company's credo remains original to this day: practical, fashion-forward products of exceptional quality. Their products can saunter Fifth Avenue and Tribeca with ease, garnering admiring glances along the way, and still work as a practical day-to-day bag. Whether you're a strictly jeans or strictly kitten heel girl, you can find something to strike your fancy at m0851. We at HILARY Magazine chatted with m0851's marketing director Faye Mamarbachi and got the inside scoop about their fashion-forward products and brand new name.
HILARY Magazine: m0851's design concept is modern—clean, classic lines. How do you keep that integrity?
Faye Mamarbachi: We remain classic by not following trends, and try to focus on comfort, simplicity and quality fabric [aniline leather], as opposed to creations based on the industries ideas of what fashion is.
HILARY Magazine: Tell us a bit about aniline leather.
Faye Mamarbachi: Aniline leather is calf skin, and aniline is how the skin is finished; all our leather is imported from Italy. Our leather is thin and remarkably durable.
It ages very well and our bags and accessories have a life span of over 10 years. The finishing is all done at our tannery in Italy before arriving here to begin production. We worked directly with the tannery to create a finish that we felt fits our products.
HILARY Magazine: What is m0851's design concept?
Faye Mamarbachi: The design concept is focuses on being practical, logical and flexible for anyone no matter whom they are or where they’re from. Our clientele ranges from sporty to classic--everyone can find something to fit their needs.
HILARY Magazine: m0851 was formerly known as Rugby North America. What was the reason behind the name change?
Faye Mamarbachi: We are breaking into the international market and as you know, in Europe, Rugby refers to the national sport and could not be registered under this trade name. With m0851, we felt it had no limitations. We will continue to evolve throughout the years, and strongly believe that m0851 will evolve with us.
HILARY Magazine: What fabrics do you use for your clothing line?
Faye Mamarbachi: Our clothing line focuses on classic comfortable styles ranging from sweaters, wool pants to rainwear. All of our fabrics are imported from Europe (Belgium, Italy, Paris), which include cashmeres, wools and Egyptian cotton.
HILARY Magazine: What differences do you see in the international market? Do you create different lines depending on region?
Faye Mamarbachi: Of course, but a classic concept will always be welcomed in every type of culture and market. Because there is something for everyone in our line of products, we have no need to alter it for different regions.
Check m0851 out online at www.m0851.com