LYRA MAG.

 Outdoor Retailer/SLC + Midtown/NYC Leather free haulers ---practical, durable and blessed with style---are a chic alternative to animal skin carry-alls. We recently previewed the Spring 2013 collections of two brands that we've favored for a few seasons, Lilypond and Olivia + Joy ...both at very accessible prices. The hip factor of going vegan/eco is catching on--- Stella McCartney  has always had a cruelty free brand of accessories,  and now-the luxury Italian label Bottega Veneta ---offers up a stunning satchel made from Japanese Washi paper. Bravo to the consumer demand for leather alternatives even grabs the eyeballs of that leather goods stalwart. Both selections are incredibly expensive though; we are sure there's a reason why- beyond a pricey marketing budget. Lilypond 's bags, totes, and accessories are largely made with recycled PET---aka a recycled fabric named CYCLEPOND™-on the exterior and interior. Highlights: FIREFLY- exterior of CYCLEPOND™ co...

NYC words/images Judith Ecochard BROOKS ENGLAND, PEDaLED,  BOOKMAN LIGHT, BIKE GLOW Brixton Tote Bicycles are a time honored way of commuting...around the world, and here in the USA, a growing way of getting to work. Eton Leather Satchel-shoulder straps can be used backpack style Barbican Leather Shoulder Bag-w/adjustable shoulder strap How nice then, that an Italian cycling conglomerate owned Brook England Ltd. --- a refreshed heritage brand with  a collection of masterfully crafted panniers and cycle luggage, messenger bags, saddles and ponchos...is launching here. Piccadilly Leather Knapsack-middle and Challenge Saddle tool  bag (l)  D-Shaped  Saddle Bag (r) this poncho fits right underneath the saddle... Victoria Saddle rain proof poncho Pickwick Backpack made of water resistant canvas, leather trim, roll-top w/ Brixton  Tote http://www.brooksengland.com Another brand launching here hails from J...

SHERPA ...is a technical/lifestyle brand inspired by the Himalayas and the athletes who frequent it. Sherpa owned and run...the company's performance garments ---will work for jaunts to higher peaks, runs/hikes through the parks, .as well as day trips in urban settings. Performance fabrics---and meticulous construction---are hallmarks...and almost all items made in three factories in Nepal. PLUS: Nice details like the multi-color zip tags like the fluttering Prayer Flags...and the Mandala print as a kind of logo...super flattering cuts on female apparel...and overall lifestyle pieces that are ideal for travel...easy care, sun protection woven in, and pockets-including hidden ones...for valuables. Durable too-these pieces will last a backpack trip around the world. Highlights: IMJA Jacket-2 way stretch, DWR fabric,  elastic binding at hood keeps it snug, hand pockets and Napoleon chest pocket, reflective accents, articulated elbows, thumbholes keep sleeves put..and...