Vel-Oh
Tell us a bit about Vel-Oh. Who are you and what do you do?
Vel-Oh is the brainchild of East London husband and wife team Greta and Zulfi. We are a start up brand focusing on the commuter cyclist who wants to combine looking good with practicality - we call this Cycle Couture! All our products are designed with a sleek aesthetic look and innovation which stems from years of cycling experience.
What's so special about your bags?
They're awesome! First and foremost, our Vel-Oh bags are designed, sourced and manufactured in the UK. They comprise of premium materials that are made to last and weather all types of our ever changing climate. We use hand-cut carbon fibre for back support and magnets for the closures – much better than zips and velcro that catch on your favourite jumper. And not forgetting our signature lining - we love polka dots!! Our bags transform from a shopper that can fit your A3 portfolio into a backpack you can cycle away with.
How did you come up with the design?
After years of cycling to and from work we really wanted a bag that had a sophisticated look combined with a practical back bone. The Vel-Oh bag had to be a chameleon in the cyclist's day and evening - whether they are off to do a presentation at a meeting or need to carry their helmet to dinner, making it the perfect accessory for everyone.
We spent countless weekends in our kitchen on the sewing machine trying out all sorts of prototypes. Our experience as cyclists collaborated with our own creativity and finally the Vel-Oh concept was born.
What's important to you?
The UK has a strong manufacturing heritage and we want to embrace this culture. We believe in quality of workmanship rather than disposable fashion. Cycle couture doesn't have to mean lycra and messenger bags or backpacks – we want you to be stylish with or without your wheels.
Describe your perfect Sunday.
It's a relaxing day for us, mainly spent strolling around with our dog Led Zeppelin. Also, drinking way too much coffee and eating all the stuff we shouldn't!
Anything else you'd like to tell us?
At present Vel-Oh bags are only available through our website. We will be showcasing at SpinLdn urban cycling show at The Sorting Office in London, 8-10 May. We’ll also be enjoying Eroica Britannia cycling festival in Peak District 19-21 June. Come and say hi and meet the bag in person.