Philosophy
About Us
Welcome to bukuro, a fusion of heritage and progression captured in the essence of a bag. Inspired by the Japanese word fukuro (袋), meaning bag, bukuro embodies the artistry and practicality synonymous with this everyday essential.
The heart of our brand is grounded in the subtle linguistic shift where fukuro (袋) is pronounced bukuro when paired with another word. The soft cadence of fukuro symbolizes the gentle embrace of tradition, while the voiced bukuro signifies a bold departure into contemporary style. Our bags mirror this linguistic dance, evolving with each contextual word the design is paired with.
At bukuro, each piece is a testament to the seamless blend of form and function. Every stitch weaves a conceptual narrative challenging preconceived notions of ordinary objects and high-end exclusivity. Indulge in the understated elegance that defines our collection.
Behind the Brand
Bukuro is an AAPI and LGBTQ+ owned business. The brand pulsates with the passion and vision of our Founder and Creative Director, Nico Gardner. With an entrepreneurial zeal, a keen eye for design, and an unwavering commitment to success, Nico is the mastermind behind bukuro.
Armed with a master's degree in Fiber and Material Studies, Nico spent over a decade navigating the exclusive, high-pressure, blue-chip art world. Here, he honed his talent for business, cultivating a specialized foundation of expertise that would later fuel bukuro. However, the spark that birthed bukuro was not merely a business venture but a heartfelt mission.
The roots of bukuro extend back to a 10-year-old Nico, who was, even then, crafting his destiny. With his mother's childhood sewing machine from Japan (carefully rewired by his father for the United States), he handmade silk and cotton bags, selling them to friends, family, and strangers. Little did he know this early enthusiasm would mature into a lifelong commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and craftsmanship that makes up our refined brand.
Kami
Kami is our debut bag and a testament to redefining expectations. Derived from kami (紙), meaning paper, the ordinary becomes extraordinary in the realm of bukuro. The Kami bag is an exquisite rendition of a classic brown paper grocery bag, only this time meticulously handcrafted from sumptuous leather and plush suede.
Kami stands as a paradox, where the mundane morphs into esoteric lavishness. This is more than a bag; it's a leather masterpiece, a nod to sophistication rooted in simplicity. Kami invites you to cherish the allure of a paper bag reimagined in the lap of luxury.
Bukuro aims to fabricate stunning, practical designs and make them accessible to a broader audience. Our team is dedicated to creating fashion accessories that are works of art, stitching together beauty, functionality, and high-quality leather to produce pieces that transcend boundaries and resonate with everyone.