Substanz for Peel Sphere — Flora Bag
Our collaboration with the German–Chinese material innovation start-up Peel Sphere began in 2023.
In 2026, Peel Sphere commissioned Substanz to design and produce a series of five bespoke bags: three created as exclusive Chinese New Year gifts for VIP clients, and two conceived as distinctive exhibition pieces for showrooms and international trade presentations.
The Flora Bag was created as a sculptural exploration of AlgaeSkin, showcasing the versatility of algal polymer materials through an organic, botanical-inspired form. Crafted entirely from AlgaeSkin, without an inner mesh structure, the design was conceived as a fully compostable piece, allowing the material itself to define both the structure and visual character of the bag.
Inspired by the organic beauty and joyful forms of the plant world, the bag was executed at a haute couture level of craftsmanship. More than 150 individually hand-sewn elements come together to create its intricate three-dimensional surface, making each piece highly detailed and unique.
The Flora Bag made its debut at APLF 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, where it showcased the potential of algal materials beyond conventional applications.
Materials & Craftsmanship
AlgaeSkin bio-polymer in four colours — Peel Sphere
Gold-plated stainless-steel hardware
Lightweight green BCI cotton lining
Trims and additional components sourced through the Substanz network
More than 150 individually hand-sewn elements
Fully compostable construction
The Flora Bag demonstrates how material selection, sourcing and prototyping can translate innovative biomaterials and sustainable materials into highly refined fashion applications. Working with material innovators such as Peel Sphere, Substanz explores how bio-based materials can move beyond conventional uses to create distinctive bags and accessories, supporting the wider adoption of circular economy solutions in fashion.
