Air Willie is prepared for take off.
Fashion designer Willie Norris has partnered with the travel brand Away to launch a new collection of luggage on Thursday in honor of Pride Month, which begins June 1. Featuring the bold text her work is known for, the carry-ons and garment bags are decorated with witty statements like “Something to Declare” and “This Is Personal.”
On designing the luggage, Norris told WWD she drew inspiration from air travel signage: “I wanted the products in this collaboration to simultaneously blend in and stand out at an airport, and look like they were signs of their own.”
Though Norris referred to designing on luggage as a “dream blank canvas,” the format did come with some challenges. “Getting my signature bold type to translate properly onto the texture and divots of the Away suitcases was a challenge that the design team at Away handled with aplomb,” Norris explained.
Proceeds from Norris’ collaboration with Away will go toward the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Foundation, an organization advocating for safety and equality within LGBTQ+ tourism. Norris added that Away is a longtime supporter of IGLTA; the designer emphasized the importance of supporting the queer community beyond Pride Month.
“Away’s mission to transform travel resonated deeply with me,” Norris said. “In a world where borders and boundaries can often feel limiting, Away’s ethos stands for openness and inclusivity. They understand that everyone’s journey is unique, and they strive to make traveling an empowering and positive experience for all.”
This new collection follows Norris’ previous collaboration with Away, which included suitcases designed for members of the queer community traveling during Pride — however, they weren’t on sale for the general public. This year, the designs are on the market, with the Bigger Carry-On retailing for $295 and the Garment Bag available for $195.
When it comes to jetting off, Norris offers succinct and sage advice: “Take it all in stride. Traveling is a privilege — be grateful for the ability to do it. Be nice to people. Eat well.”
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Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
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Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
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Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
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Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
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Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
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Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
-
Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
-
Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.
-
Willie Norris x Away Pride Collection 2024
Image Credit: Courtesy Designer Willie Norris collaborated with Away on a travel collection that celebrates Pride 2024.