Follow U.S. Investment Immigration and U.S. Living information: Once hailed as the Louis Vuitton of America in the early 20th century, the luggage brand "Chief Trunk" has recently been relaunched for a new generation of travelers. Despite a 50-year gap in public recognition, the brand is ready to restore the reputation of its "Chief" canvas stripe series from the "Golden Age of Travel," thereby revitalizing itself.
At its peak, "Chief Trunk" was known for its association with Oshkosh luggage company. The brand's suitcases were highly regarded for their unique style: non-wheeled luggage, which is now considered cumbersome and impractical, was once an essential part of luxurious travel. Its distinctive red and yellow "Chief" stripes were first introduced in 1898 to replace letter combination patterns.
The new owners of the brand, New York businessmen Konrad Duchek and Michael Sambrano, who are deeply rooted in the fashion industry and passionate about quality travel, view this trademark as a quintessential representation of the new era of travel enthusiasm. While serving as the Director of Business Planning for Chanel in the U.S., Duchek discovered an Oshkosh suitcase at a vintage luggage stall in a famous flea market in Paris during a trip. After some contemplation, he decided to revive Oshkosh, seeing it as a perfect opportunity to ally with his former partner Sambrano.
Before relaunching the brand, they carefully repositioned it, transforming the previously formal and airline-compatible suitcases into tote bags and travel bags aimed at a new generation of travelers. Inspired by the "Chief" series, the duo designed a range of portable luggage, including tote bags, travel bags, and canvas weekend bags, suitable for both college students and professionals looking to enjoy a wonderful weekend.
Reportedly, "Chief Trunk" bags are primarily made from American fabrics and manufactured at the Navy Yard in Brooklyn. Ranging from $65 (approximately 398 RMB) for a coin purse to $1,095 (approximately 6,701 RMB) for a leather travel bag, they are currently sold exclusively on their own e-commerce website.
