Kiehl’s dopp kit designed by Nappa Dori is a perfect mélange of craft and care: Gautam Sinha

“When they (Kiehl’s) approached me to get associated to celebrate this occasion, I was very much enthusiastic about it, but was a little clueless that how to go about it to make it a men’s affair altogether. After discussion and meeting we decided to come up with a dopp kit which was very masculine in look and at the same time spell the signature style of Nappa Dori and sophistication of Kiehl,” recollects Gautam.

Made of rugged water resistant poly canvas, with earthy leather accents and a print that depicts the botanicals and apothecary of Kiehl’s is definitely a man’s pick for those who love to pamper themselves and are looking for something that can keep their pampering kit organised. Talking about the design aesthetics of the bag, Gautam says, “While working on design aesthetics of the bag, I kept myself on the other side of the table and thought what a man would love to carry in his luggage that is simple yet trendy. It was then I decided with the cylindrical shape, as it can be easily slipped in a backpack, trolly or even the weekender bag without occupying much space and the leather loop can be used to hang it in the restroom without getting the bag wet. It’s a perfect mélange of craft and care.”

“Actually the very existence of Nappa Dori, five years down the line happened when I was looking for genuine stuff that was masculine and at the same time contemporary to keep my daily routine stuff organised. And while exploring such products, I came across the idea of starting with Nappa Dori, which is all about genuine leather goods,” says Gautam about Nappa Dori came into existence.

Calling the association as one of its kind, the young designer and entrepreneur is “thankful for the level of acceptance we have received as a team in such a short span, whether it’s in India or abroad, people appreciate our effort and that motivates us to push the envelope.”

“Association of Nappa Dori and Kiehl is first ever collaboration of the skin care brand with an Indian design house and that reflects the trust and goodwill we have been able to build,” he adds.

So does he like to pamper himself? “I am not among those who love to pamper themselves so much, but yes the basic moisturising and nourishment is part of my daily routine and I think every man should make it a regular activity, as there is nothing to be shy of caring your skin,” says Gautam.

Ask him about the future plans for Nappa Dori, and pat comes the reply, “I am pretty excited about expanding the design house not just in terms of product range but also opening more number of stores. At present we have two stores in Delhi and plans are to open more, keeping the target market in mind.”