Hartmann Forges New Partnership With Metalsmith Michael Aram

LEBANON, Tenn., April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Classic American luggage brand, Hartmann®, has collaborated with famed metalware designer Michael Aram to create The Naturalist™, a luggage collection for "the natural traveler." Rendered in an organic palette of woven materials, the finest grain leather, and handcrafted metal pulls and details, the suite subtly incorporates Aram's signature artisanal approach and distinctive style. The hand wrought leaf and branch motifs capture the spirit of the celebrated designer while the luggage itself incorporates all of the fine craftsmanship and quality for which Hartmann has been known for over 130 years.

"I have been traveling all over the world since I was a small child," says Aram. "Today, I live my life between New York City and New Delhi, so travel is part of my world all the time. Creating luggage that looks, feels and moves the way I want it to, and to do it with a house like Hartmann, was an obvious and wonderful step to take."

The introductory assortment includes Mobile Travelers in 20", 24", 27" as well as a 20" Duffel, Tote, and Vertical Satchel designed for today's travel. A rich brown textured cotton fabric, accented with black leather trim is lined in black and finished with bronze handcrafted hardware, a Michael Aram signature. Exclusive launch at Bloomingdales May 2010. In stores August 2010, suggested retail pricing starts at $149.99.

About Michael Aram, Inc.

Artist and sculptor Michael Aram founded Michael Aram, Inc. in 1989 after a memorable trip to India on which he discovered the country's rich metalworking traditions. Aram's diverse collections of giftware, tableware, furniture and home accessories are handmade by local craftsmen using age-old traditional techniques. The line is available internationally at major department stores and specialty boutiques, including the Michael Aram Flagship in New York City. For additional information, visit www.michaelaram.com 

About Hartmann

Since 1877, Hartmann has developed, manufactured and marketed the finest luggage and leather goods to meet the travel and business needs of those who appreciate American luxury. Headquartered in Lebanon, Tennessee, Hartmann distributes and sells its luggage, business cases and personal leather accessories in the U.S. and internationally through finer department and specialty luggage stores. Hartmann is owned by Clarion Capital Partners, LLC, a New York based private equity firm. Additional information about Clarion may be found at www.clarion-capital.com. For more information about Hartmann please visit www.hartmann.com.

SOURCE Hartmann