Book II: Jekyll’s Hyde - Gnome & Bow's Latest Collection

Hey everyone!

So elated to receive news that one my favourite Singaporean brand Gnome & Bow is launching their new collection this week! So many reasons to be excited for.

I have been very busy lately that I don't have the time to even update about my personal life yet. Grateful to be in a really great place right now and hopefully it gets better over time.

Today, let me introduce to you Gnome & Bow's latest collection which is very synonym to the current position of my life right now. Gnome & Bow's branding has been about story telling and it echoes my preference for the finest things in life that has a story. Personally, I'd rather own things that has a story relatable that allows emotional attachments. Which is why I treasure gifts more than my own purchases most times! Gnome & Bow in this case, tell us stories through clever details in its design.


Jekyll’s Hyde collection explores and reinterprets the ideas of duality, change and acceptance, a modernisation of the Robert Louis Stevenson masterpiece. The range of bags and wallets were designed to showcase the two contending faces of human nature: the rational, reserved side versus the wilder, more spontaneous inner-self. The question is “Which side will prevail?"

Have we ever asked ourselves which side of us should we espouse?

As for me, I love adventure, meeting new people, doing crazy stuffs that pushes me to the limit. And today, I daresay I'm past that phase where I take nonconstructive comments to heart. I wouldn't invest that much time in people who don't bother to reciprocate good intentions, or let alone have the least thought and effort to appreciate my goodwill. That does not mean I have stopped being nice or start being two-faced.

This collection defines my 'duality' in that sense. There are certain days either side prevails and Book II: Jekyll’s Hyde collection says it all.


The duality of man is expounded by each bag’s reversibility. One side features a classic Midnight Blue or Forest Green nylon, which speaks of a distinguished Dr. Jekyll. When flipped, the bags reveal a custom printed cotton canvas in Khaki Maverick or Olive Maverick, each motif testament to the unconventional ways of Mr. Hyde. Both characters rival for control via a message that is inscribed on the inner leather base of the bag, a constant hint at the fine line that one might thread between the two contradicting personalities.

They are beautiful and perfect for everyday use and awesome getaways!


Their Milton Crossbody Clutch is essential to be casual in style, perfect for lectures and serves great utility for travelling. It fits the essentials like passport, cash and sunglasses. I am loving the green one that goes well with nature outings whereas the blue is distinctly fitting for a trip to the city.


I personally adore the Kensington Messenger for it's handy size for flights or if you have to bring your iPad to classes. Really suitable if you tend to have long days like me. Able to keep my stack of notes, wallets, and spare clothes for gym. What's unique about this bag is its stamped leather bottom that says "Let me out!" or "That's enough!" a quote adapted from the Jekyll Hyde novel.


Their Strand Briefcase on the other hand is very functional for those who like something light to carry on their hand. Going to work may make you feel empty without carrying anything and this briefcase can be a perfect fit with matching suit. Two outer zipped pockets eases reach to your mobile or cards easily.


While I usually use backpack in cases where I have to go to a lot of places to go in one day, this adds style lest people see the mess in my bag. Its clean and sleek look does not intimidate and an ease to the eyes.


Stories are the fabric of memory which make life entertaining and unexpected. Fairytales and folklore speak a language that is both universal and immortal, transcending the barriers of age and culture.


Gnome & Bow was founded on that very notion that bags can go beyond functionality to become a new medium for storytelling, evoking the same emotions as their favorite stories. The Gnome represents that element of fantasy while the Bow symbolises the mark of class. Together, the harmony of these elements guides their design philosophy. Drawing inspiration from the classics to tales of fancy, they develop story elements that are imbued seamlessly into their goods. As with reading a book for the first time, exploring their products will uncover subtle and clever details that reveal a story you’ll find familiar, but with a modern twist. Timeless as the stories that inspire them, they believe their bags should be too. Their collection of bags, wallets and small leather accessories are designed to be the perfect companion for the discerning individual.

The casually fascinating bags are crafted in a combination of U.S full grain leather, nylon and cotton canvas. Each bag comes in two variants - Midnight Blue or Forest Green.

That's Gnome & Bow for you!

Prices range from SGD 245 for the Milton Crossbody Clutch to SGD 395 for the Clifford Backpack. Available here and selected stockists from 4th September 2015.