Sandqvist

Sandqvist – Scandinavian Roots and the Story of a Leading Bag Brand

Born between Sweden’s wild, rolling forests and the bustling streets of Stockholm, Sandqvist has become a byword for functional designer bags paired with that unmistakable minimalist Scandinavian flair. The story began back in 2004, when Anton Sandqvist—soon joined by his brother Daniel Sandqvist and lifelong friend Sebastian Westin—set out on a very personal quest. Anton, an engineer with an eye for design, simply wanted an everyday bag that was equal parts practical and stylish. Little did he know, that search would spark a movement among design lovers around the globe.

Sandqvist’s origins? They’re all about necessity meeting creativity. Frustrated by the lack of well-made bags on the market, Anton bought himself a sewing machine and whipped up a prototype just for fun. But when friends and family started asking where they could get one too, Anton realized he’d stumbled onto something bigger—a demand for bags that ticked every box: useful, stylish, and affordable. That lightbulb moment kicked off a brand-new chapter in Swedish bag brand history.

Sustainability, Quality, and the Sandqvist Design Philosophy

From day one, Sandqvist has stood for more than just good looks. Sustainability, hard-wearing quality, and timeless Scandinavian aesthetic are baked into every design. With founders who grew up fishing, skiing, and camping under Nordic skies, it’s no surprise that their love for the outdoors shines through in every collection. Their five-pillar approach puts sustainable materials, ethical production, and fair labor right at the heart of each sandqvist collection.

Their connection to nature isn’t just for show. Sandqvist makes it a point to use sustainable materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton. They’ve built strong relationships with Indian factories skilled in traditional leather tanning and sewing—places where craftsmanship still matters. And when it comes to fair working conditions, they walk the talk through partnerships with the Fair Wear Foundation, ensuring every piece is made responsibly from start to finish.

This spirit of responsibility extends to their design language: clean lines, smart features, and an unwavering focus on utility. It’s all about crafting quality sustainable products that can handle daily hustle without ever sacrificing style. As Daniel Sandqvist likes to say, a bag should be practical, durable, and beautiful—and that single idea guides everything from the first sketch to the final stitch.

Evolution from Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition

In the early days, Sandqvist was as hands-on as it gets. Anton managed everything—from sketching designs to delivering bags himself (sometimes zipping across Stockholm on his scooter with orders in tow). As word spread and orders piled up, they moved into a shared office with People Magazine—an unlikely pairing that ignited new partnerships and rapid growth.

By 2007, Sandqvist had caught the attention of major fashion publications and was making waves at high-profile events like the Copenhagen International Fashion Fair. The stockholm-based bag brand quickly carved out its place as a leader in beautifully designed bags, whether for city commutes or weekend escapes into nature. Swedish fashion magazines took note of their innovation, further cementing Sandqvist’s status as a leading bag brand.

Fast forward to today: Sandqvist is celebrated not just for its sleek designs but also for sticking to its principles—crafting functional bags that blend urban cool with outdoor toughness. With flagship shops in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and London; a thriving online store; and shelves in hundreds of retailers worldwide, it’s clear their vision has struck a lasting chord.