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- The Real Reason Telfar Is Ending Its Popular Bag Security Program
The Real Reason Telfar Is Ending Its Popular Bag Security Program
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Telfar‘s Shopping Bag, commonly known as the “Bushwick Birkin,” is an It bag like none other. Featured on shows like “Insecure” and endorsed by celebrities like Beyoncé and Lil Nas X, the rectangular carryall is not just a hot commodity; for many, it’s also a powerful symbol of representation. When Liberian American founder Telfar Clemens launched his unisex label in 2005, he specified in his mission statement that he aims to redefine luxury. Rather than create a culture of exclusivity, his approach to luxury is “not for you, for everyone.” And with Shopping Bag styles retailing from $150 to $257, Clemens is indeed making luxury more accessible and inclusive.
All of this, plus the fact that the bags are vegan friendly and extremely functional, causes every Telfar bag drop to sell out in a matter of seconds, whether it’s a new colorway or an entirely new design. So fast, in fact, that the brand launched the Bag Security Program to ensure everyone who wants a Telfar bag can purchase one. Through the Bag Security Program, customers can buy as many Shopping Bags as they desire; the items are then made to order and shipped by a certain date. However, Telfar recently announced that the popular Bag Security Program is coming to an end – and for an interesting reason.
Telfar also regularly partners with brands for highly anticipated collabs, teaming up with everyone from Moose Knuckles to UGG, Eastpak to Rainbow. With Clemens’s seemingly endless well of design inspiration, each piece looks memorable and distinct. The Moose Knuckles collab yielded an oversize tote with an allover logo print, while his UGG partnership is marked by its iconic boot silhouette with Telfar’s “TC” logo integrated into the top of the shoe.
There’s never been a better time to secure the bag, so read on for everything you need to know about purchasing a Telfar style of your own – as well as the fate of the Bag Security Program.
Related: Beyoncé and Telfar’s Love Story Keeps Unfolding on “Renaissance”
Getty / Valentina Frugiuele
What Is the Telfar Bag Security Program? Why Is It Ending?
The strategic program is back for its fifth and last iteration, offering everyone who wants to own a Telfar bag a chance to purchase one. For a limited timespan (from June 16 at 12 PM EST to June 18 at 6 PM EST), customers can order one or as many bags as they’d like. The bags are then made to order and shipped between July 26 and August 31, 2023.
The first iteration was offered in August 2020, and the second followed later in March 2021. The third took place in October 2021 and the fourth occurred on April 14, 2022. Once all orders are placed, the brand begins production and ships out the bags within a specific timeframe.
So why is it coming to an end? Designer Telfar Clemens explained in a statement. “Bag security changed our lives and changed fashion,” he said. “NY literally looks different – and we were able to leave the fashion system. We literally do exactly what we want as a company. That’s exactly what we are doing by moving on from it, too. We want people to be able to get our bags – but also for people who get our bags to GET US. Otherwise what is it? So we want to make it both easier and harder. Because it’s never been about money. So, it better be about something.”
telfar.net
Telfar x UGG Collab
The Telfar x UGG collab is among the brand’s most popular, with fans clamoring to own one of the pieces featuring exposed shearling trim and a plush rendering of the signature logo. The original collab featured chestnut and black colorways, but pink and blue hues will also be available in the next drop, as a nod to iconic UGG colors from the 2000s. Shop the latest offering starting March 2 on Telfar.net and UGG.com and at select retail partners worldwide beginning March 5.
telfar.net
Telfar x Moose Knuckles Second Capsule Collaboration
The bestselling Telfar x Moose Knuckles collab is back with a futuristic spin. Launching Dec. 1, the collection features 24 pieces of ready-to-wear and accessories, including the iconic allover logo-print shopping bags in gold and silver and new performance-driven outerwear. The designs “embody ostentatious anonymity: a distinctly New York penchant for getting noticed while minding your own business,” as the press release eloquently states. Shop the collection now before it sells out.
Getty / Edward Berthelot
Where to Buy a Telfar Bag?
You can purchase every style of the Telfar Shopping Bag on Telfar’s website, which is periodically restocked with new products. To stay updated on the latest news, sign up for the brand’s newsletter and regularly refresh its website and social accounts. While there’s no news of a third iteration of the Bag Security Program, it’s likely underway.
Getty / Edward Berthelot
What Is a Telfar Bag Made Of?
The Telfar bag is crafted from sustainable vegan leather, making it an eco-friendly fashion item. Packaged in a 100 percent cotton dust bag, the Shopping Bag features an exterior made of faux leather, lined with woven twill.
Getty / Edward Berthelot
What Is the Telfar Bag Price?
The small Telfar Shopping Bag retails for $150, the medium rings in at $202, and you can purchase the large for $257. With these relatively affordable price points, Telfar is actively pioneering the luxury space, making it accessible to more people.
Getty / Vanni Bassetti
Is There a Telfar Store?
While the brand doesn’t yet have a physical store, Clemens revealed that one is underway in an episode of “The Breakfast Club” radio show. In conversation with hosts Charlamagne tha God, Angela Yee, and DJ Envy, Clemens shared that Telfar is planning to open its first brick-and-mortar location soon. “There is one coming; we’re opening a store this year in New York City,” Clemens said. “We’re still deciding where that’s going to be. I don’t want to say too much about it, but it’s opening this year.” Chances are, the first store will be based in New York or, more specifically, his hometown of Queens.
telfar.net
The Telfar Duffle Bag Returned
Just in time for summer vacation plans, limited quantities of the Telfar Duffle bag were made available to shop on Telfar.net starting at noon on Friday, May 13. The functional design is available in small, medium, and large and ranges from $290 to $430. It features twin logo-embossed side pockets, an inner pocket, twin handles, and a detachable shoulder strap for maximum practicality. It’s finished with silver hardware and logo zipper pulls for a timeless look and feel.