Hello MLE,

So, I was going for a run along the canal the other day, and a woman in front of me had one of these bags. I ran past. Then of course, I had to loop back and ask her where she got it from, cause as you know, I have no problem asking people where they got stuff.

Evidently the brand is from Amsterdam. A husband and wife team. The first series that came out in 2002 before they were actually a label was pretty rough - made of second-hand handbags with distinct silhouettes of handguns and kitchen knives. The amount of media coverage they received inspired them to launch their label Vlieger and Vandam in 2004.

Embossing on leather is their specialty.  A traditional hat makers machine was transformed for the purpose of embossing the leather panels for their Guardian Angel and Diamonds series. "Guardian Angel" is the brand's classic, a range of bags featuring the embossed silhouettes of weapons. In 2006 MoMA added a Guardian Angel bag to its permanent collection.

I need one. Maybe next time I am in Amsterdam I will go by their shop... I always thought that city was safe, as there are no good places to shop for clothes, but alas no longer (hope that doesn't offend anyone but it's just my opinion what do I know?)

Suzan  xx