Baggage Claim

By Betsy Kroll

For travelers looking for a little more flair at the baggage-claim area, luggage maker Samsonite seems to have come up with the perfect solution: an eight-piece customized line of luggage called Black Label Couture. "When Samsonite started in 1910, travel was a luxury only accessible to a select few," says Samsonite's creative director, Quentin Mackay. "As a result, luggage was a luxurious purchase. In those days we offered a service of customization."

Nowadays travel is accessible to most everyone, and the current boom in the luxury-goods business has given Samsonite reason to revisit its roots. When shopping for Black Label Couture, customers can choose the lining, trim, hardware and thread that will be used to make their bags--a total of more than 2,000 different possible combinations, including unconventional materials like velvet, alligator and patent leather. With the aid of computer technology, sales associates can show customers what their creation will look like as they style it. Depending on the materials and style, prices range from $750 to $2,000-- affordable by designer standards--and delivery takes from six to 12 weeks. Styles include hatbox, duffel with wheels, packing suitcase, beauty case, tote bag and wallet. The line is now available in Samsonite's New York City and San Francisco stores. With so many choices, a one-of-a-kind, easy-to-spot suitcase at the baggage carousel is a lock.