Shoe and leather goods event GDS/GLS has introduced a new German Bag Designer project to encourage high quality, creative designs from young German designers.

Labels such as OWA, Sequenza, Nicole Pietag and Gretchen – The Little Pearl will showcase new trends at the event, which will take place September 14-16 in Düsseldorf. 

"Young German designers are creative. But they need to present their ideas to the broad public with more courage and be willing to take risks. With this project we hope to show just how creative and cutting edge Germany is," said Bernd Michael Ostwald, managing director of Owa Moden and initiator of the project. 

Bags from OWA feature unusual shapes and come in various functional styles. Its concept is understated luxury and the brand uses leathers that are designed to suggest a casual naturalness. South German label Sequenza focuses on individuality, and materials range from ostrich leather and crocodile tail to python skin. The company received the German Shoe and Leather Goods award in 2006.

Nicola Pietag produces hand and travel bags, purses, key rings and cosmetic bags made from nappa leather and suede, canvas and linen. Meanwhile, Gretchen accessories feature clear and minimalist designs. Behind the label is designer Anne-Christin Hofmann, who has designed accessories for luxury labels such as Hugo Boss, Escada and Burberry.