In Conversations with Malene Brandt

There is a quiet beauty in finding something that feels inherently yours. For those who return to KONÉ, a bag is more than an object — it is a companion, marked by time and memory. We spoke with Malene Brandt, a longtime customer drawn back to KONÉ over the years, about lasting pieces, deepening stories, and the gentle joy of choosing with intention.

We first met Malene a year ago, when she visited our studio to decide whether to invest in a new KONÉ piece. Since then, our paths have naturally intertwined, making it feel only right to share Malene’s story — one that mirrors KONÉ’s quiet vision to create timeless forms that endure, carrying meaning from one decade to the next.

What must a piece possess for you to experience the quiet satisfaction of finding something that feels truly right, aligned with your style and your values?

For me, a bag has to be simple and made for everyday life. I love when it’s spacious and big enough for all my belongings that I need in my daily but keeps its shape. I’m not into too many compartments or zippers, I like being able to see everything at once, especially since I’m often rushing from one meeting to the next. The design has to be timeless and effortless — the kind of bag I keep reaching for, again and again.

What first drew you to KONÉ, and can you recall the moment you purchased your very first bag?

I bought my first KONÉ bag second-hand more than ten years ago. I was drawn to its elegant simplicity and the effortless sense of space it offered. Since then, I’ve added two more to my collection as I needed bags that could hold both my work and my personal life: my computer, my papers, and all the little things that come with a busy day.

In what ways have your KONÉ bags become part of your daily life, and what personal significance do they hold for you?

I use them every day. For meetings, my work with HeyBOOB, my political engagements, and when I travel. It’s important to me that they offer both space and a sense of order, while still feeling light and elegant. To me, my bags represent functionality and balance; they move with my pace without ever disrupting it.

What is it about KONÉ that inspires you to return and continue your collection over time?

KONÉ has a timeless elegance that I truly appreciate. The bags grow more beautiful with time, and I can see and feel the thoughtfulness and craftsmanship behind every design. It also means a lot to me that KONÉ is Danish and cares about sustainability. That’s what keeps me coming back and makes me proud of my choices.