A Designer's perspective
More and more women are choosing journeys where nothingis expected and everything can unfold naturally. Where time matters more than pace, and the most meaningful moments are the ones you never planned.
That way of thinking became the starting point for MYSTIQUE. We spoke with Eric Koedijk, Head of Design at SUITSUIT, about the vision behind the collection and how A Softer Kind of Luxury was translated into design.
Where did MYSTIQUE begin for you?
"We see more and more women longing for a different way of travelling. Their days are often filled with work, family and social commitments. Surrounded by constant stimulation, they are always switched on.
Travel is becoming less about bigger, better or more impressive experiences, and more about finding calm, creating space and slowing down. It is about recharging, making time for yourself or for the people you travel with. That, to me, is the new definition of luxury: A Softer Kind of Luxury. And that is where MYSTIQUE began. Not as a collection designed to stand out, but as one designed to bring a sense of calm.”
Every collection begins with trend research. What developments stood out?
"That’s right. We always look beyond the travel industry. We follow developments in fashion, interiors, art and society to understand how people’s needs are evolving, particularly those of women.
Over the past few years, one shift has become increasingly clear: a move towards a softer way of living. Many women are looking for more calm, fewer distractions and products that are made to last. We see the same change in the way people travel. Slow travel is growing rapidly. Quite literally, it means travelling more slowly. Less rushing, less ticking off destinations and more time to truly experience a place.
Elke collectie begint met een trendonderzoek. Welke ontwikkelingen vielen op?
"That’s right. We always look beyond the travel industry. We follow developments in fashion, interiors, art and society to understand how people’s needs are evolving, particularly those of women.
Over the past few years, one shift has become increasingly clear: a move towards a softer way of living. Many women are looking for more calm, fewer distractions and products that are made to last. We see the same change in the way people travel. Slow travel is growing rapidly. Quite literally, it means travelling more slowly. Less rushing, less ticking off destinations and more time to truly experience a place.
The same movement is reflected in design. We are moving away from products that simply demand attention and towards timeless quality. We call this Quiet Design: designs that do not shout for attention, but remain relevant for years to come.”
How do you translate a vision like that into design?
"For MYSTIQUE, we wanted to create a collection that radiates calm. That was the starting point for everything. We chose a refined design language, subtle details and soft contrasts. Nothing unnecessary, just a design where every detail has a purpose. Its strength lies in the balance. Clean lines are paired with softer shapes in the handles, wheels and zips, creating a collection that feels strong while remaining elegant and approachable."
So, it is not just about creating a beautiful design?
"Exactly. A timeless design only has value if it is built to last. That is why we deliberately chose premium, durable materials such as 100% polycarbonate. It is strong, lightweight and flexible, allowing the suitcases to withstand years of travel. The matte finish, the gunmetal details and every individual component have all been developed with great care and thoroughly tested. That is how we translate a softer kind of luxury into design."
How did you arrive at the colour palette?
"Here too, we wanted to stay true to the same philosophy. We deliberately chose rich, warm colours that create a sense of calm while retaining character. These are not seasonal trend colours that disappear after one season, but timeless shades designed to remain beautiful for years. Just like the collection itself."
Last but not least:
MYSTIQUE also includes bags and accessories. Does that require a different approach?
"SUITSUIT has evolved from a suitcase brand into a travel brand. Today, we design complete travel collections that reflect the way women travel today. The boundaries between work, leisure and travel continue to blur. A weekend away often begins straight after the working day, and a laptop bag travels just as often as a suitcase. That thinking shaped the bags and accessories within MYSTIQUE as well. From the weekender to the laptop bag, every piece has been designed according to the same Quiet Design philosophy, using materials that feel refined, understated and timeless. In doing so, we support women on every journey. Whether they are travelling to the other side of the world, or simply heading into the office."
Reimagined for softer journeys
MYSTIQUE is designed for women seeking a lighter way of living. More balanced. More connected to themselves. The way we travel is changing too. Less rushing. Less pressure. More conscious experiences. A softer kind of luxury that is not about owning more or chasing status. But about creating space for what truly matters. Time.
