Notebooks are kinda a thing of the past, what with tablets, smartphones with even larger screens, and Kindles taking over our lives, but that’s not stopping Moleskine from keeping up with the times. The brand, known for their paper products, might pop up most prominently two times a year — when we’re looking for a year-long planner, and when we run out of pages of that one sturdy notebook we have for the entire year — or, you know, when they see popular pop culture fandoms such as Star Wars or Game of Thrones on their covers, but did you know that they’re in the business of magic too? Come on, what else do you call this?
The Smart Writing Set is a genius bunch of tools that allow you to draw or write on the very tactile surface of a specially-designed notebook, that feels very much like writing on paper, while any sketch or writing is then instantaneously digitised, and appears on your phone/tablet/laptop, whichever platform you’re running the app from. We’re told that the notebook’s actually a paper tablet, while the special Pen+ contains ink but also a small hidden camera that traces and digitises any mark you make, so there! At $359, it’s a little costly, but think about how handy this will be for lectures or meetings.
So okay, this technology has already been around for at least a year, but it definitely brings out our point — that the company is embracing the new age — and is just one of the ways the Italian company is staying relevant in today’s digital landscape. The other? Bags.
Moleskine Classic Tote, $178 ; Classic Backpack, $239 ; Classic Duffle, $279
So you’re probably wondering… isn’t that kinda old-school? Well, maybe. The designs are predictably functional, in a series of totes and backpacks that feature ergonomic designs, and with a nice touch of rounded edges that are a callback to the way Moleskine notebooks are designed. There’s even that “in case of loss” tag sewn on the inside of the bags that reference the first page of every one of their notebooks, cute. However, looking at the sizing and sturdiness of the designs, it’s easy to tell that they’re made to carry our digital devices, and all other documents and essentials we need for travel, client meetings and more.
Classic Foldover Backpack, $148 ; Classic Backpack, $239
Those who actually bother looking for a laptop bag (as opposed to a case) will know how hard it is to find one that’s functional and slim — thankfully, Moleskine’s bags are pretty sleek and unisex too; the Classic Tote is roomy enough for lots of items while retaining a neat body, while the Classic Backpack comes in a discreet design that you can use daily.At the same time, the Classic Foldover Backpack is a more interesting take on the boxy backpack, since the lightweight design features that distinct flap as a design element.
Classic Backpack, $239 ; Classic Foldover Tote, $178 ; Classic Backpack, $239
There are also new shades such as Steel Blue, Myrtle Green and Slate Grey, or genuine leather versions of the Classic Backpack and Classic Tote that can withstand even more wear and tear. And since it’s Moleskine, each bag has a not-so-secret pocket for you to store your favourite notebook. Of course!
Moleskine Fall/Winter 2017 Collection, from $148 to $320, available at Takashimaya L3, TANGS at Tangs Plaza L3, and all Moleskine stores. moleskine.com
You must be logged in to post a comment.