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It was back in early 2008 that I began working on an idea. The kind of thought that goes: “If I ever start something of my own, this will be it.” A crazy idea, but one that never let me go. Fifteen years later, I still look back fondly on those early days of experimenting, learning and trying again. What once started with a bright pink suitcase cover and a spark of naïve curiosity, has now grown into an international luggage brand. From a hobby project in the attic to a company with a clear mission. Proud? Absolutely
Emile Vijlbrief
Founder SUITSUIT
It’s the most romantic story behind every business: the anecdotes of how it all began years ago. And of course, every success story starts in a small, dark attic room. Mine too. Well, not dark, but definitely small. It was there, in early 2008, that I began working out an idea I had been having for some time. The kind of thought that goes: “If I ever start something of my own, this will be it."
A crazy idea, but one that never let me go.
Until 2007 I travelled the world as the marketing manager for a luxury American stationery brand. On every trip, I was struck by the same things: the endless rows of dull blue, black and grey suitcases, barely distinguishable from each other; the owners staring hopelessly at the luggage belt, unsure which anonymous box on wheels was theirs. And more and more often, I saw people wrapping their suitcases in that wonderfully eco unfriendly plastic, supposedly to protect against scratches or to keep out malicious intruders.
I thought: there has to be a smarter way. Something that would protect your suitcase, make sure you never took the wrong one home again, and be kinder to the environment. The idea of a suitcase cover was born.
A nice idea, but what kind of cover? Which shape, which material? The thought kept spinning in my head and never let go. Until that day in 2008, when I finally had the time and the urge to start something for myself. I bought a Samsonite Aris, one of the most popular suitcases at the time, and asked a friend of mine, a seamstress in a bridal shop, to create a pattern for a cover. I quickly realised the fabric had to be stretchy so it would fit multiple sizes. But which fabric? Polyester, nylon, cotton? How much stretch and in which direction? So, something with spandex – but in what percentage? Woven, knitted, or something else? I knew stationery, but fabrics?
Not at all.
After a crash course in “which fabric to use for what,” I bought a few metres of bright pink polyester spandex, the kind used for swimsuits, from a wholesaler, and with my friend’s help sewed the first cover together. After weeks of tinkering and experimenting, I proudly held up my very first suitcase cover: the idea had finally taken shape.
It wasn’t until 2010, after two years of behind-the-scenes trial and error, that the first covers were sold. A small order, but a huge milestone. Proof that it actually worked, and that it was time to take things seriously.
That’s when SUITSUIT International was officially born. No longer a hobby project, but a company with a mission.
And now, fifteen years later, I still look back fondly on those early days of experimenting, learning and trying again. What once started with a bright pink suitcase cover and a spark of naïve curiosity, has now grown into an international brand creating suitcases and bags that I’m still proud of every single day. And the suitcase cover? Millions are sold worldwide each year. Not by us anymore, but still wonderful to see that the product once dreamed up in that tiny attic has now become part of everyday travel across the globe.
Why the name SUITSUIT?
So, what exactly was a suitcase cover? Basically, a jacket you put around your suitcase, made from the same fabric used for swimsuits. Your suitcase in a swimsuit… a suit. A suit for your suitcase. SUIT 4 SUIT. That was it! And then we thought: what if we drop the 4? SUITSUIT. Yes!
“What began as a hobby project in the attic has grown into a leading international player in suitcases and travel bags.”
Playful, colourful suitcase covers made way for trendy suitcases.
With the launch of the Fabulous Fifties we established ourselves as the pioneer in feminine travel gear. It became the collection that defined our brand. Discover more about Fabulous Fifties.
From Fashion
to Feminine
In a predominantly masculine luggage market, where suitcases were often business-like and impersonal, we deliberately chose a different path in 2015.
By focusing specifically on women and developing products that matched the wishes and needs of a feminine audience, we set ourselves apart as a brand.
Further expansion
into retail
It was a natural step to expand beyond suitcases into travel bags and accessories – designed especially for women. This allowed us to grow further in retail: our range complemented the often male-oriented assortments and attracted an audience that had previously been underrepresented in stores. Thanks to SUITSUIT, more and more women found their way to the luggage shop.
Since the summer of 2024, we can officially call ourselves a B Corporation (B Corp) – and we couldn’t be prouder! As a B Corp, we are part of an international movement of companies that use business as a force for good: using (part of) their profits to create a positive impact on people, society and the planet.
The SUITSUIT Foundation is an independent organisation with the aim of supporting projects that help strengthen the social and economic position of women within the travel and tourism sector. Its focus lies on equal opportunities, female empowerment and sustainability.
After fifteen years of growth, innovation and inspiration, it’s time for a new milestone: the opening
of our very own brand stores. Places where you can truly experience the world of SUITSUIT – from our suitcases and bags to the stories and values behind them. With our own stores, we bring the brand closer to our customers, create an inspiring environment,, and continue building a direct relationship with our community. An exciting next step in our journey, making SUITSUIT even more visible and accessible.