Shop Review: Bags of Flavor, Manchester

Where is it?
33 Tib Street, opposite the sex shops and near Cord Bar.

The history...
Owner and designer Richard Gill started out by making custom made record bags for local Manchester DJs. He used his tailor father’s studio to create the pieces, and sold them from his shop in Affleck’s Palace, which he had for seven years. He then moved to his own place on Oldham Street before finally setting up shop in its current location two years ago. He’s since branched out and now stocks a range of items.

What does it sell?
Bags of Flavor does more than it says on the tin. As well as selling quirky satchels made out of recycled material, it also sells records, footwear and vintage casual clothing.

And just like the clothing on offer, no two bags are the same, as Richard insists on making them out of top quality fabrics in order to create unique pieces. He uses retro tracky tops, tweed, leather, and will even make bespoke bags from items owned by customers. They come in a variety of brands, colours and sizes.

As well as making bags, Richard also makes his own sweatshirts out of kids’ duvet covers. There’s an array of designs which will take you straight back to the 1980s, like Superman, He-Man and Batman.

How much does it all cost?
The bags sell for between £30-£40 and you can pick up a Goretex Berghaus jacket from the 1980s for £75. Sweatshirts are £25 and we spotted a collectable Fila jacket that cost £90 in 1980, but will set you back £230 now.

Where does it all come from?
Richard has a handful of worldwide suppliers who he trusts to source quality, rare items. Having a keen eye, he also spots things himself when on his travels.

Clothing comes from all over the world - Italy, Japan, USA - but will only be sold if still in tip-top condition. Many of the items on sale are rarities and one-offs, like a West German Adidas jacket from the 1970s which is still as good as new (£135). Other labels on offer are Fila, Lacoste, Berghaus, Sergio Tacchini and more.

Who shops there?
Many DJs have popped their records into one of Richard’s bags; The Unabombers, Portishead and New York’s Qool DJ Marv, to name a few. It’s also popular with Northern Quarter folk and youngsters who buy Richard’s retro cartoon inspired bags and sweatshirts.

The clothing mainly caters for men but Richard does have a handful of jackets for women.

Why shop there?
If you’re tired of mass-produced high street stuff and have a hankering for one-off items. Also, if you’re into collecting vintage clothing and footwear, you’ll probably unearth something exciting.

Verdict
It’s a great little boutique with a cool, relaxed vibe and a treasure trove of retro gear.

Bags of Flavor opens Mon-Sat 11am-6pm