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Changing the world, one
bag at a time
PAULIEN WESSELINK
- FOUNDER O MY BAG -
Paulien Wesselink is founder of the successful and sustainable bag label O My Bag. In her search for the ideal bag produced in a sustainable way, she travelled to India in 2010 with a friend.
O My Bag was born.
POM AMSTERDAM spoke with her about sustainable entrepreneurship, the ideal it-bag, and her vision for the future.
Changing the world,
one bag at a time
PAULIEN WESSELINK
- FOUNDER O MY BAG -
Paulien Wesselink is founder of the successful and sustainable bag label O My Bag. In her search for the ideal bag produced in a sustainable way, she travelled to India in 2010 with a friend.
O My Bag was born.
POM AMSTERDAM spoke with her about sustainable entrepreneurship, the ideal it-bag, and her vision for the future.
Changing the world,
one bag at a time
PAULIEN WESSELINK
- FOUNDER O MY BAG -
Paulien Wesselink is founder of the successful and sustainable bag label O My Bag. In her search for the ideal bag produced in a sustainable way, she travelled to India in 2010 with a friend. O My Bag was born.
POM AMSTERDAM spoke with her about sustainable entrepreneurship, the ideal it-bag, and her vision for the future.
INTRODUCTIONS
SEARCHING FOR
THE IDEAL BAG
You are the founder of the bag label O My Bag, now with a team of more than 28 people, a headquarters located in De Pijp, Amsterdam, and sales points worldwide.
I love bags. I was always searching for the ideal bag that could also fit everything. I think I inherited that from my mother. After studying International Relations and History, I decided to go to New York, where I was inspired to start my own business. I wanted to promote fair trade and responsible entrepreneurship. Together with a friend, I started O My Bag.
Our first trip was to India, where we searched for fair trade producers. On the photos of the samples, we scribbled in pen what we wanted to see changed. Thankfully, this process has become more professional. During my studies, we often talked about development aid. This shaped my ideas about the world and what I wanted to contribute. I wanted to focus on something that would make a positive difference in the world. I decided to produce bags in emerging economies to promote social change.
India, known for its leather export and craftsmanship, was a logical choice. The use of English as a primary language was an additional advantage. The artisans have years of experience in high-quality leatherwork. By producing in India, we create employment and economic opportunities for local communities, which helps reduce poverty.
YOUR PURPOSE
ETHICAL MANNER
What is your higher purpose?
We want to demonstrate as a company that it's possible to produce timeless, beautiful bags and accessories in an ethical manner that can positively impact the lives of the people who make the products. We believe that by supporting conscious trade, we can contribute to a better world with fairly paid jobs, safe working environments, equal opportunities, and respect for the environment.
SUSTAINABILITY
LASTS A LIFETIME
How do you ensure fair and sustainable production of the bags?
Our leather is produced without chemicals, using natural methods, which gives it a unique patina and makes the leather age beautifully. Leather is durable and strong, perfect for long-lasting products. We recognize the environmental challenges of leather production and therefore adhere to strict criteria: LWG-certified, Gold-rated, vegetable-tanned, and chrome-free. Our hides are by-products of the meat and dairy industry, with full transparency in the tanneries. Leather lasts a lifetime. As long as people consume meat and dairy, hides can be repurposed for leather. Only 3.5% of the impact of meat slaughtering is attributed to leather production.
We also offer vegan options like Uppeal, made from apple residues. While fully plant-based alternatives are still in development, we collaborate with producer Mabel Synthetic on sustainable materials.
"Because our leather is produced without chemicals but in a natural way, there will be signs of use. I love this because it allows the leather to come to life."
TOP FLOWER ECRU
€69
SHAWL FÊTE DU SHRIMP PETITE
€39
DRESS STELLA FLOWER ECRU
€169
INTRODUCTIONS
SEARCHING FOR THE IDEAL BAG
You are the founder of the bag label O My Bag, now with a team of more than 28 people, a headquarters located in De Pijp, Amsterdam, and sales points worldwide.
I love bags. I was always searching for the ideal bag that could also fit everything. I think I inherited that from my mother. After studying International Relations and History, I decided to go to New York, where I was inspired to start my own business.
I wanted to promote fair trade and responsible entrepreneurship. Together with a friend, I started O My Bag.
Our first trip was to India, where we searched for fair trade producers. On the photos of the samples, we scribbled in pen what we wanted to see changed. Thankfully, this process has become more professional. During my studies, we often talked about development aid. This shaped my ideas about the world and what I wanted to contribute.
I wanted to focus on something that would make a positive difference in the world. I decided to produce bags in emerging economies to promote social change.
India, known for its leather export and craftsmanship, was a logical choice. The use of English as a primary language was an additional advantage. The artisans have years of experience in high-quality leatherwork. By producing in India, we create employment and economic opportunities for local communities, which helps reduce poverty.
INTRODUCTIONS
SEARCHING FOR THE IDEAL BAG
You are the founder of the bag label O My Bag, now with a team of more than 28 people, a headquarters located in De Pijp, Amsterdam, and sales points worldwide.
I love bags. I was always searching for the ideal bag that could also fit everything. I think I inherited that from my mother. After studying International Relations and History, I decided to go to New York, where I was inspired to start my own business. I wanted to promote fair trade and responsible entrepreneurship. Together with a friend, I started O My Bag.
Our first trip was to India, where we searched for fair trade producers. On the photos of the samples, we scribbled in pen what we wanted to see changed. Thankfully, this process has become more professional. During my studies, we often talked about development aid. This shaped my ideas about the world and what I wanted to contribute. I wanted to focus on something that would make a positive difference in the world. I decided to produce bags in emerging economies to promote social change.
India, known for its leather export and craftsmanship, was a logical choice. The use of English as a primary language was an additional advantage. The artisans have years of experience in high-quality leatherwork. By producing in India, we create employment and economic opportunities for local communities, which helps reduce poverty.
Our first trip was to India, where we searched for fair trade producers. On the photos of the samples, we scribbled in pen what we wanted to see changed. Thankfully, this process has become more professional. During my studies, we often talked about development aid. This shaped my ideas about the world and what I wanted to contribute. I wanted to focus on something that would make a positive difference in the world. I decided to produce bags in emerging economies to promote social change.
India, known for its leather export and craftsmanship, was a logical choice. The use of English as a primary language was an additional advantage. The artisans have years of experience in high-quality leatherwork. By producing in India, we create employment and economic opportunities for local communities, which helps reduce poverty.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF THE BAG
A BAG FOR EVERYONE
The contents of your bag say a lot about your personality.
What's in your bag?
In my bag, I have my iPhone, notebook, and pen case from O My Bag, lip balm, wallet, keys, papers, a stainless steel water bottle, and a travel-size perfume. Although my bag is always full, the handy zippered compartments make it easy for me to find my keys. There is a bag for everyone in our range. Some people opt for practical bags, while others prefer striking, stylish ones.
MATCHING OUTFIT
Go-TO TAS
How do you match your bag
with your outfit?
I can't go without my bag. For specific occasions, I always have a go-to bag. For city trips or outings with the kids, I choose for a small crossbody or bumbag that fits all the essentials. For work meetings or office days,
I use a shopper or larger bag. You rarely see me without an O My Bag.
Our bags, usually in black and cognac, complement almost any outfit. I'm a fan of colour blocking; with a dark outfit, I often choose a cognac bag as an eyecatcher. I also love monochrome outfits with a statement accessory. My favorite O My Bag item varies, but currently, I often wear the Jackie Cognac from the SS24 collection.
YOUR PURPOSE
ETHICAL MANNER
What is your higher purpose?
We want to demonstrate as a company that it's possible to produce timeless, beautiful bags and accessories in an ethical manner that can positively impact the lives of the people who make the products. We believe that by supporting conscious trade, we can contribute to a better world with fairly paid jobs, safe working environments, equal opportunities, and respect for the environment.
YOUR PURPOSE
ETHICAL MANNER
What is your higher purpose?
We want to demonstrate as a company that it's possible to produce timeless, beautiful bags and accessories in an ethical manner that can positively impact the lives of the people who make the products. We believe that by supporting conscious trade, we can contribute to a better world with fairly paid jobs, safe working environments, equal opportunities, and respect for the environment.
SUSTAINABILITY
LASTS A LIFETIME
How do you ensure fair and sustainable production of the bags?
Our leather is produced without chemicals, using natural methods, which gives it a unique patina and makes the leather age beautifully. Leather is durable and strong, perfect for long-lasting products. We recognize the environmental challenges of leather production and therefore adhere to strict criteria: LWG-certified, Gold-rated, vegetable-tanned, and chrome-free. Our hides are by-products of the meat and dairy industry, with full transparency in the tanneries. Leather lasts a lifetime. As long as people consume meat and dairy, hides can be repurposed for leather. Only 3.5% of the impact of meat slaughtering is attributed to leather production.
We also offer vegan options like Uppeal, made from apple residues. While fully plant-based alternatives are still in development, we collaborate with producer Mabel Synthetic on sustainable materials.
SUSTAINABILITY
LASTS A LIFETIME
How do you ensure fair and sustainable production of the bags?
Our leather is produced without chemicals, using natural methods, which gives it a unique patina and makes the leather age beautifully. Leather is durable and strong, perfect for long-lasting products. We recognize the environmental challenges of leather production and therefore adhere to strict criteria: LWG-certified, Gold-rated, vegetable-tanned, and chrome-free. Our hides are by-products of the meat and dairy industry, with full transparency in the tanneries. Leather lasts a lifetime. As long as people consume meat and dairy, hides can be repurposed for leather. Only 3.5% of the impact of meat slaughtering is attributed to leather production.
We also offer vegan options like Uppeal, made from apple residues. While fully plant-based alternatives are still in development, we collaborate with producer Mabel Synthetic on sustainable materials.
"Because our leather is produced without chemicals but in a natural way, there will be signs of use. I love this because it allows the leather to come to life."
"Because our leather is produced without chemicals but in a natural way, there will be signs of use. I love this because it allows the leather to come to life."
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF THE BAG
A BAG FOR EVERYONE
The contents of your bag say a lot about your personality. What's in your bag?
In my bag, I have my iPhone, notebook, and pen case from O My Bag, lip balm, wallet, keys, papers, a stainless steel water bottle, and a travel-size perfume. Although my bag is always full, the handy zippered compartments make it easy for me to find my keys. There is a bag for everyone in our range. Some people opt for practical bags, while others prefer striking, stylish ones.
MATCHING OUTFIT
GO-TO BAG
How do you match your bag
with your outfit?
I can't go without my bag. For specific occasions, I always have a go-to bag. For city trips or outings with the kids, I choose for a small crossbody or bumbag that fits all the essentials. For work meetings or office days,
I use a shopper or larger bag. You rarely see me without an O My Bag.
Our bags, usually in black and cognac, complement almost any outfit. I'm a fan of colour blocking; with a dark outfit, I often choose a cognac bag as an eyecatcher. I also love monochrome outfits with a statement accessory. My favorite O My Bag item varies, but currently, I often wear the Jackie Cognac from the SS24 collection.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF THE BAG
A BAG FOR EVERYONE
The contents of your bag say a lot about your personality.
What's in your bag?
In my bag, I have my iPhone, notebook, and pen case from O My Bag, lip balm, wallet, keys, papers, a stainless steel water bottle, and a travel-size perfume. Although my bag is always full, the handy zippered compartments make it easy for me to find my keys. There is a bag for everyone in our range. Some people opt for practical bags, while others prefer striking, stylish ones.
MATCHING OUTFIT
Go-TO TAS
How do you match your bag
with your outfit?
I can't go without my bag. For specific occasions, I always have a go-to bag. For city trips or outings with the kids, I choose for a small crossbody or bumbag that fits all the essentials. For work meetings or office days, I use a shopper or larger bag. You rarely see me without an O My Bag.
Our bags, usually in black and cognac, complement almost any outfit. I'm a fan of colour blocking; with a dark outfit, I often choose a cognac bag as an eyecatcher. I also love monochrome outfits with a statement accessory. My favorite O My Bag item varies, but currently, I often wear the Jackie Cognac from the SS24 collection.
"Although my bag is always full, the convenient zippered compartments make it easy for me to find my keys."
"Although my bag is always full, the convenient zippered compartments make it easy for me to find my keys."
PAULIEN'S IDEAL DAY
I WAKE UP...
What does your ideal workday
look like?
My ideal day starts in vibrant London, where there's an international, ambitious atmosphere. Followed by a delightful breakfast of scrambled eggs and salmon on sourdough toast at Buvette in New York. It's a joy every day to work in our beautiful, inspiring office building on Ceintuurbaan in Amsterdam (with its warm tones, lovely furniture, and lots of light). Our office manager spoils us daily with a vegetarian lunch, but I also enjoy dining out. I love a cool rooftop bar with great cocktails and end the evening with a dance to some fun tunes. At the office, we regularly organize drinks, and our karaoke machine gets a lot of use then.
THE FUTURE
IN 10 YEARS
What does O My Bag look
like in 10 years?
Our goal is to be present in the 25 most fashionable capitals in the world in 10 years and to be listed on the 'Time 100 Most Influential Companies' list. Think of cities like New York, Tokyo, Paris, and London. We aim to positively impact 100,000 lives in India by 2030. Our core product will always be bags, but we do not rule out expanding our range. We dream of collaborating with Dutch brands like POM Amsterdam and Anna and Nina, as well as international brands like Reformation or Sezane.
PAULIEN'S IDEAL DAY
IK WAKE UP...
What does your ideal workday look like?
My ideal day starts in vibrant London, where there's an international, ambitious atmosphere. Followed by a delightful breakfast of scrambled eggs and salmon on sourdough toast at Buvette in New York. It's a joy every day to work in our beautiful, inspiring office building on Ceintuurbaan in Amsterdam (with its warm tones, lovely furniture, and lots of light). Our office manager spoils us daily with a vegetarian lunch, but I also enjoy dining out. I love a cool rooftop bar with great cocktails and end the evening with a dance to some fun tunes. At the office, we regularly organize drinks, and our karaoke machine gets a lot of use then.
THE FUTURE
IN 10 YEARS
What does O My Bag look like in 10 years?
Our goal is to be present in the 25 most fashionable capitals in the world in 10 years and to be listed on the 'Time 100 Most Influential Companies' list. Think of cities like New York, Tokyo, Paris, and London. We aim to positively impact 100,000 lives in India by 2030. Our core product will always be bags, but we do not rule out expanding our range. We dream of collaborating with Dutch brands like POM Amsterdam and Anna and Nina, as well as international brands like Reformation or Sezane.
"Although my bag is always full, the convenient zippered compartments make it easy for me to find my keys."
PAULIEN'S IDEAL DAY
I WAKE UP...
What does your ideal workday
look like?
My ideal day starts in vibrant London, where there's an international, ambitious atmosphere. Followed by a delightful breakfast of scrambled eggs and salmon on sourdough toast at Buvette in New York. It's a joy every day to work in our beautiful, inspiring office building on Ceintuurbaan in Amsterdam (with its warm tones, lovely furniture, and lots of light). Our office manager spoils us daily with a vegetarian lunch, but I also enjoy dining out. I love a cool rooftop bar with great cocktails and end the evening with a dance to some fun tunes. At the office, we regularly organize drinks, and our karaoke machine gets a lot of use then.
THE FUTURE
IN 10 YEARS
What does O My Bag look
like in 10 years?
Our goal is to be present in the 25 most fashionable capitals in the world in 10 years and to be listed on the 'Time 100 Most Influential Companies' list. Think of cities like New York, Tokyo, Paris, and London. We aim to positively impact 100,000 lives in India by 2030. Our core product will always be bags, but we do not rule out expanding our range. We dream of collaborating with Dutch brands like POM Amsterdam and Anna and Nina, as well as international brands like Reformation or Sezane.
Finally, a few more questions:
Golden tip for young women who want to start a business?
If you have a great business idea, create a business case, flesh it out, and go for it. If you truly believe in something, don't be too hesitant but pursue your dreams; encouraging more female entrepreneurs is something I will always advocate for!
TOT SLOT NOG EEn AANTAL vragen:
Finally, a few more questions:
Golden tip for young women who want to start a business?
If you have a great business idea, create a business case, flesh it out, and go for it. If you truly believe in something, don't be too hesitant but pursue your dreams; encouraging more female entrepreneurs is something I will always advocate for!
Golden tip for young women who want to start a business?
If you have a great business idea, create a business case, flesh it out, and go for it. If you truly believe in something, don't be too hesitant but pursue your dreams; encouraging more female entrepreneurs is something I will always advocate for!
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