How it all began
The story of SID&VAIN begins in 1998 – in a place where many great ideas are born. Sid and Oliver met at Stanford University and quickly realized they shared the same passion: a love for good design, high-quality materials, and honest, durable products. Their friendship soon blossomed into a desire to create something together that reflected these very values – and so the idea for SID&VAIN was born.
The inspiration of campus life
The atmosphere of the university and the surrounding colleges particularly inspired her. The retro charm of American college culture, the historic libraries, the brick buildings, and the classic Ivy League bags fascinated her. This world had a style that felt familiar, warm, and timeless. But there was a problem. Most of the bags available in this environment were usually extremely expensive and not particularly functional for modern times.
Timeless blend of heritage and modernity
Both wanted to create a modern alternative: a bag that captured the spirit of college culture while embracing modern values like sustainability and functionality. They wanted to design models made from naturally tanned cowhide or robust canvas—materials that didn't look artificial but exuded tangible quality. They dreamed of products that were durable and evolved with each passing year, rather than losing their value.
By the mid-90s at the latest, with the spread of lighter laptops (pioneered by the Apple PowerBook in 1991), backpacks, messenger bags and business bags were equipped with their own laptop compartments.
The inspiration behind the logo
The logo with the two unicorns is more than just a symbol. The two friends wanted to express their friendship and shared vision with it. For centuries, unicorns have stood for purity, protection, values, and permanence – qualities that they also embody in their products.
The two unicorns represent their partnership: two different personalities with a shared goal. They stand for strength and idealism without arrogance, and for the courage to forge their own path, one that no one initially believed possible.
Pioneers in the emerging eCommerce sector
At that time, online retail was still in its infancy. But Sid and Oliver recognized the potential early on and began offering their bags online (initially on eBay). This made them among the first to sell high-quality natural material bags over the internet. The response was surprisingly positive. People from all over California and increasingly from other regions ordered their designs. The small student project grew and became the foundation of a brand that still stands for style and innovation.
From the initial college bags, a wider range has emerged. New materials, new shapes, and new ideas have been added. But the core has always remained the same: naturally tanned leather and canvas are at the heart of it. Each model is designed to last for many years. The style is deliberately timeless, ensuring that every bag remains relevant even after a long time.
Real materials. Real stories.
Despite all the growth, one thing has remained unchanged: the love for materials that radiate honesty. Leather that develops a patina over time. Canvas that remains robust and reliable. Design that is not loud, but naturally beautiful. Products that you enjoy using every day and that become a little more personal with each passing year.
SID&VAIN aims to continue developing bags that will last for years. We believe that quality shouldn't be a luxury, but rather a choice for good materials and careful craftsmanship.