This marks our first trip to Samui this year. #legend journeys alongside leading lifestyle brand TUMI to celebrate its Spring 2026 campaign and collection under the concept of “Mediterranean Escape.” The event brought together an exclusive circle of VIP guests from across the Asia-Pacific region, alongside a star-studded guest list including Mile Phakphum Romsaithong, Blue Pongtiwat Tangwancharoen, Dunk Natachai Boonprasert, Rebecca Armstrong, Pond Ponlawit Ketprapakorn, Jan Ploychompoo Supasap, Goy Arachaporn Pokinpakorn, and Faye Peraya Malisorn.
Amidst the tropical backdrop, #legend sat down with Victor Sanz, TUMI’s Global Creative Director, to discuss the brand’s latest design direction—one that continues to evolve through vibrant colors, bold patterns, and innovative material textures. If you’re ready to experience a more expressive and dynamic side of TUMI, this exclusive conversation offers a rare glimpse into Victor’s creative vision and the inspiration behind the collection.
Regarding your new collection, "Mediterranean Escape," what specific memories or locations from that part of the world inspired the new colors, like Thyme and Pink Clay?
Victor Sanz: When we started developing the Mediterranean Escape collection, we didn’t want to focus on just one destination. We looked at the region as a whole, where each place offers something special. In Positano, you have the lemon groves and the scent of citrus, which inspired our washed yellow. In Greece, you have the olives—you can see that exact olive green here. In Italy, it was the flavor and texture of thyme, as well as the terracottas. Even the Pink Clay was inspired by the terracotta roof tiles seen all over the Mediterranean. Then there are the blues and indigos found in the prints.
We wanted to invoke a mindset rather than a singular destination—the feeling of getting away, experiencing travel, and finding a moment to pause in a busy schedule. It’s a celebration of color that inspires you to travel.
Many of your new bags, like the Olas and Harrison lines, have a woven look that feels like natural straw or raffia. Why was it important to bring those "vacation textures" into high-tech travel gear?
Victor Sanz: A material like raffia immediately suggests how you’re going to use the bag. This tote we’re looking at is something you’d see poolside, at the beach, or at a local market picking up fresh fruit for a summer picnic. We know that if a material can invoke such strong memories, there must be a “soul” to it.
We wanted to bring that texture to life in the Olas and the totes. In our men’s line, we also have moments where you see the woven Thyme material complemented by olive green leather. This creates a new phase for Tumi—it remains inherently Tumi in terms of functionality and durability, but it’s more fashion-forward and contextual.
You studied Industrial Design at Pratt Institute. How does that background help you ensure a bag doesn't just look fashionable, but actually works for travelers?
Victor Sanz: We are always striving to solve problems—whether it’s a technical issue, a weight problem, or durability. We consider how a bag holds a computer, eyeglasses, or an iPhone, and even how the strap connects. Those are the performance issues we solve daily.
When we get into color and materials, we’re applying a fashion lens to a product design mentality. Having an industrial design background while working parallel to the fashion and trend industries allows us to bridge that gap easily. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice performance for something that looks good and evokes emotion. We’re always balancing that. It has to work well, and it has to make you feel and look good while using it.
The Voyageur collection is all about being "ready for anything," from the Just In Case® Tote to the Celina Backpack. Do you think people are looking for more "all-in-one" bags that work for both the office and a weekend trip?
Victor Sanz: People’s lives are becoming more complex. One moment you’re here with me for an interview, the next you’re by the water, and after that, you’re on a plane to your next meeting. We understand that.
Whether it’s a small crossbody for someone whose entire business is on their phone, or a smaller backpack for those with 13-inch laptops and iPads, we want to meet customers where they are. With our women’s collections, like Olas and Voyageur, we’re offering bags that work for the day-to-day. For example, our relaunched Q Tote is the ultimate “do everything” bag—it’s a business tote, a getaway bag, and a day-to-day staple.
You chose Thailand for the big Asia-Pacific launch of this collection. What is it about the vibe here in Samui that fits the spirit of "Mediterranean Escape"?
Victor Sanz: It’s a beautiful location where you can truly disconnect. I arrived late the other night and walked through the terrace; I could hear the waves crashing before I could even see them. There’s a calmness and a joy here—it’s not the chaos of a metropolis.
As much as the collection is inspired by the Mediterranean, it’s really about finding that time to pause, breathe, and enjoy your surroundings. We don’t spend enough time doing that. This collection is about resetting and recharging.
You’ve been with Tumi since 2003. How do you keep classic designs like the "Alpha" feeling cool for younger travelers without losing loyal fans?
Victor Sanz: We continue to speak to our customers and analyze how their lives are changing. For the Alpha, it’s a constant evolution of refining performance. We never want to take a step back.
At the same time, trends are important to younger demographics. That might mean a new silhouette, a modern sling, or integrated colors. Customers want self-expression and personality in the products they carry. We are continually evolving and adding, never abandoning our roots.
Which color from this collection fits you the most?
Victor Sanz: I like so many, but for me, it’s Thyme. As a designer, I wear a lot of black, and I love how that color provides a strong pop. I’ve been using a Thyme bag in the office and for travel. It makes me feel like I’m on holiday even when I’m not. I’m actually traveling with the Thyme International Carry-On right now!
