FASHION
Minimalist timepieces for the conscious consumer
In its bid for stylish sustainability, the Filipino-founded
watch brand dives deep into the detail.
IFthere’s one thing consumers are particular about in their fashion choices, it’s the ideals of the brands they choose to patronize. Shoppers today don’t just consider the design or features of a product, they want to buy from brands that ultimately contribute to the greater good—brands that they can personally advocate for.
If a brand has ideals and values that aren’t aligned with theirs, then these conscious consumers are likely to purchase from other brands. This is one of the main reasons why more light has been shed on certain issues in the fashion industry, such as providing fair wages, following ethical practices, and becoming more eco-conscious.
And while other brands may not fully grasp the importance of this yet, one fashion brand that puts emphasis on evolving with today’s consumer concerns is LEUPP.
Combining elegance and minimalism
Developed in 2018 by designer and entrepreneur Riane Garfin, LEUPP is a Filipino brand that focuses on making simple, clean, and contemporary timepieces. The brand's name is a play on the word “loop,” which alludes to the cycles of repetition found in watches. This also ties in with how the brand positions itself—as purveyors of time machines.
LEUPP is the perfect choice for the minimalist consumer, especially for one that seeks modest elegance in the pieces they wear.
“Our main aesthetic is inspired by the Japanese principle of Kanso, which puts emphasis on simplicity when it comes to design choices,” said Riane. “This involves shaving off visual clutter and focusing on the historic, basic functions of a wristwatch.”
Each of the brand’s watches goes through design iterations that are cut and molded specific to the founders’ design and vision. The end result is a unique piece, dubbed as the "LEUPP look:" an elevated design created with a flattering and genderless silhouette.
Ozuru Design Sketch by LEUPP
Ozuru in Dune by LEUPP
To highlight the intricacy of each watch, LEUPP also places its brand’s logo on the back case and buckle, placing less focus on the label and leaving more room for appreciating the watch’s design.
Committed to sustainability
LEUPP’s attention to detail doesn’t stop on the face of each watch – they also innovate to create high-quality and animal friendly straps. This is in line with the brand’s commitment to leaving the smallest ecological footprint possible. Since its inception, the brand has remained firm on its stance that leather is not just a by-product, but an act of cruelty. By making vegan products available, LEUPP hopes to show everyone that there is a kinder option to leatherlike materials.
LEUPP has two types of straps available: one made from PVC-free PU leather, and a newer version made from piña leather. Both are breathable, durable, and wraps snugly around the wrist. The company also follows eco-responsible packaging practices, such as using water-based glue and inks, reducing their paper and plastic usage, and foregoing mini printed brochures to favor a user manual that can be accessed digitally.
“We are always making something for the conscious fashionista, driven by our promise and values: simple, clean and cruelty-free timepieces at fair prices. Our goal is to continually do and choose better, and we make timepieces for those who share these values. We believe that ethics combined with aesthetics is the future of sustainable fashion, and a better world.” shared Riane.
Made with purpose
At its very core, LEUPP is more than just a store for timepieces – it’s a brand driven by purpose. A lot of thought goes into the creation of each watch, and that stems from Leupp’s desire to provide high-quality watches for Filipinos and everyone else around the world.
“The impetus to create something that others will love is one of the main inspirations behind LEUPP. I wanted to make something with care for design and elegance – sophisticated products that are still accessible to all. In a way, I find that this is also how I can form connections with other people,” said Riane.
Ultimately, LEUPP is a brand that balances simplicity, design, sustainability, and purpose. The brand taps into what’s important to today’s consumers: the quality of a piece and how it is made. And among brands that put emphasis solely on flashy designs or exclusivity, LEUPP stands out with its commitment to quality and sustainability.
By elevating timepieces into something more personal, and something that helps conscious consumers further their advocacy, LEUPP shows the world that a more sustainable fashion industry is within reach.
To check out LEUPP’S offerings, you may visit their official website, or go to their Lazada and Zalora stores!
This is an excerpt from L'Officiel Ph. View the full article.