Kipling

Kipling USA, established in 1987 by three European designers, is a prominent brand known for its stylish and functional bags and accessories. The company originated in Antwerp, Belgium, and has since expanded globally, with products available in 436 stores across 80 countries and over 7,500 retail locations worldwide.

Kipling offers a diverse selection of products, including handbags, backpacks, luggage, wallets, messenger bags and various travel accessories. These items are designed to cater to different lifestyles while maintaining a focus on versatility and functionality.

Short history of Kipling

Kipling, a well-known brand for handbags and travel accessories, has an interesting history that dates back to its founding in 1987 in Antwerp, Belgium. The brand was established by three designers: Xavier Kegels, Paul Van De Velde, and Vincent Haverbeke, with a focus on creating functional and stylish bags. The name “Kipling” is inspired by the British author Rudyard Kipling, known for his imaginative stories, including The Jungle Book. Their innovative spirit led to the creation of the iconic crinkled nylon fabric, which became a hallmark of Kipling products.

In recent years, Kipling has embraced collaborations with popular cultural icons, such as a partnership with Barbie in 2023 and Wicked. This reflects the brand’s ongoing strategy to remain relevant and appealing to younger consumers while maintaining its core values of creativity and functionality.

What is Kipling all about?

Kipling’s mission centres around encouraging a vibrant and colourful lifestyle. The brand emphasizes exploration and curiosity, aiming to design bags that not only serve practical purposes but also inspire mobility and ease in daily life. Their iconic crinkled nylon bags have become synonymous with the brand, representing both quality and style.

Kipling frequently collaborates with popular brands and franchises.

Recent partnerships include collections inspired by the Netflix show Emily in Paris and the beloved comic strip Peanuts, featuring designs that reflect the playful spirit of these themes.

Additionally, they have engaged in eco-friendly initiatives, such as creating products from recycled materials.

Kipling is also recognized for its playful branding, particularly its mascot—a stuffed monkey that symbolizes fun and adventure. Each monkey keychain is named after an employee, fostering a sense of community within the company.

Kipling USA continues to innovate while staying true to its roots of quality craftsmanship and creative design.

What do they have to offer?

Kipling USA offers a diverse range of products primarily focused on stylish and functional bags and accessories, and they are dedicated to providing colourful options to those seeking quality and the best travel solutions.

Kipling provides a variety of women’s handbags like tote bags, crossbody bags and clutches, that combine fashion with practicality. Their collection includes different styles suitable for various occasions, with many featuring their signature crinkle nylon material. The brand features an extensive selection of backpacks for school, work and travel, designed for comfort and ample storage. These backpacks are ideal for both casual use and professional settings.

Kipling also offers a range of luggage products, including suitcases in various sizes, duffle bags for weekend getaways, and travel accessories. Kipling has collaborated with popular franchises, such as the Harry Potter Collection, featuring limited edition designs inspired by the four Hogwarts houses. This collection includes bags and accessories that showcase unique graphics and colours related to the series.

What is the user experience like?

Kipling USA website is designed to provide a colourful and engaging shopping experience for customers looking for designer bags, backpacks, luggage, and accessories. The homepage prominently displays a vibrant array of products, including handbags and travel accessories, encouraging exploration through visually appealing images.

Users can easily navigate through various categories such as handbags, backpacks, and sales via a clear menu structure at the top of the page.

Each product has its own page with detailed descriptions, pricing, and multiple images. Users can filter products by size, colour, and features such as water resistance or organizational pockets.

The site includes sections for sales and outlet items, making it easy for customers to find discounted products.

The interface emphasizes the benefits of creating an account, which allows users to manage their profiles easily. This includes access to a loyalty program called Kipling.Me, where users can earn points for purchases and other activities.

Kipling frequently updates its inventory with new arrivals, ensuring customers can find the latest trends in bags and accessories.

The website is designed to be accessible on various devices, ensuring a smooth shopping experience whether on desktop or mobile.

Kipling USA is active on several social media platforms, engaging with its audience through various channels, and promoting its products, sales, and brand initiatives.

What are the prices like?

Kipling USA provides a variety of options catering to different budgets, with frequent sales enhancing affordability. Items in the category Under $50 include smaller bags and accessories, often on sale. For example, some products are priced as low as $19.99. Many bags and purses fall within the range Under $100, with prices starting around $39.99 and going up to about $99.99, depending on the style and material. The Under $200 category features larger bags and more premium items, with prices typically ranging from $100 to $199.99. If you join the Kipling.Me club, you get 15% off your first order and free shipping.

The Kipling outlet provides opportunities to purchase items at discounted prices, making it easier for customers to find stylish products at lower costs. Regular sales on the website also feature markdowns on various items, so it is advised to visit the site for current prices, as discounts can be as high as 70% off. Currently, there is a promotion of 25% off on backpacks and accessories without needing a code.

What are their shipping options?

Kipling USA offers various shipping options for customers within the United States and internationally. Customers can enjoy free ground shipping on U.S. orders over $99. For orders below $99, $10 is charged for 3-7 business days delivery, and $15 for 2 business days delivery. Overnight shipping will cost you $20 and the order must be received by 11:00 a.m. EST.

For international options, Kipling USA ships to select countries through a partnership with Borderfree, Inc. Customers can view product prices in their local currency and see applicable duties and taxes during checkout. Delivery times may vary based on location and selected shipping method.

Conclusion!

Kipling USA’s website is tailored to enhance customer engagement through its colourful design, straightforward navigation, and comprehensive product information, but it could be tweaked and updated, without complicating the shopping experience.

While Kipling USA is recognized for its stylish and durable bags, customers frequently encounter challenges with customer service and order fulfilment that detract from their overall involvement.