Tow Tow: Handcrafted bucket bags proudly made in Singapore

Tow Tow might not be a household name (yet), but this is why this underrated label should be in every fashionista’s radar: Each and every product is designed from scratch and then handcrafted and assembled with care and precision.

And they aren’t your run-of-the-mill items either — visit its website and it’s clear Tow Tow isn’t a typical label. Its leather designs are bold and experimental, with a touch of exuberant joy not found in many brands, displayed through the use of vibrant colours and playful elements. Think dusty rose handles, brightly hued bases and purple clasps. 

In fact, its niche, underground status adds to its charm — holding a coveted piece adds much to your street cred.

Tow Tow was born when a leather craftsman Lau Weifang and product designer Clarissa Kang, who specialises in digital fabrication, came together in 2019 to explore the possibility of intersecting their crafts.

However it wasn't until 2022 that they finally launched their business. Kang says they set out to create products that not only showcased their dedication to craftsmanship but were out of the ordinary, too, as they felt leathercraft could be “a tad less serious”.

However, while they wanted to incorporate more playful design elements, they were having trouble finding the appropriate hardware to complement their leather bags. The easily available brass hardware was “nothing unique”, adds Kang. “That's when we thought: What if we made our own hardware?”

The pair, who are both 33 this year, decided to utilise 3D printing to create the eclectic details the brand is now known for, and the rest is history.

“Tow Tow's unique selling point lies in the innovative fusion of 3D printing and leather craftsmanship” that marries fun and practical functionality, Kang explains. The 3D printed components are placed in areas of the bag typically prone to high scuffs, which promotes the bag's longevity and preserves its newness over time, she adds.

With limited resources, the duo had to get creative. They began testing the market by selling their handcrafted products through pop-ups, and handled everything in house, from branding and content creation to marketing and social media.

They subsequently earned a cult following who appreciate their quirky aesthetic that’s inspired by the spirit of postmodernism. 

“When someone purchases a Tow Tow bag, they acquire more than just a functional accessory; they invest in a piece of craftsmanship and creativity,” says Kang. “We take pride in offering a niche of design and craftsmanship that is challenging to replicate through mass production methods.”

In fact, as the duo put their heart and soul into creating each product, they feel deeply when someone says they are not satisfied with the end result. 

Conversely, each happy customer evokes such joy. “When we see each bag being sold, you can’t imagine the glee it brings us! It means so much to us to know that someone likes our bag, and is willing to spend the money to buy one for herself or for a friend’s birthday. There’s no delight greater than that!”

At present, it’s just the two of them helming the business, but they hope to get additional help in production as well as in the areas of social media and marketing. After all, both of them are still holding full-time roles — Lau, an art educator, and Kang, a product manager.

Next on the cards: Expanding their inventory and launching a new "Build A Bag" customisation bar on their website in the last quarter of 2023, a feature that allows customers to personalise their bags. 

This means customers get to enjoy a more tailored experience and own a special piece that’s truly their own, as no two bags are the same, says Kang. 

The pair also hope to open a physical store some day. This would be in line with their aim to provide a more “playful experience”, allowing customers to get up close with the unique closures, materials, and other design elements to create their bags.

Below are some of the brand's bestsellers you need to get you hands on rn.

Pail, $255

This versatile and roomy leather bucket bag comes with a magnetic snap closure and an adjustable strap that can go from sling bag to shoulder bag to handbag.

Basket, $265

A newly launched item, this fun piece features a playful “egglet” magnetic clasp, brightly coloured handles and base, and a leather tassel.