ASHOKA
France
ASHOKA Paris is a French bag brand founded by Gwenäelle Ferlicot, designing leather-alternative bags in Paris. It uses bio-based materials such as Apple Skin, made from apple waste, and Mylo, made from mushrooms.
| Founder | Gwenäelle Ferlicot |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| Design and production | Designed in Paris, crafted in Italy |
| Key materials | Apple Skin, Mylo |
| Collaboration | Four-bag collection with Pamela Anderson, 2020 |
What is ASHOKA?
ASHOKA, sold as ASHOKA Paris, is a French bag brand. A 2023 feature says it was founded by Gwenäelle Ferlicot, who left a 20-year career in French television in 2021 to work on it full time. Her husband, Frédéric, is now her associate and designed the first three bags: Brigitte, Eclipse and Madame. The founding year is not stated, though the founders say they began discussing the idea six years before the article.
Products and positioning
The bags are described as designed in Paris and crafted in Italy; the first productions were made at a factory in Thailand. The brand focuses on eco-responsible materials:
- Apple Skin: a bio-based material made from apple waste
- Mylo: a material made from mushrooms
- Recycled nylon and recycled vegan suede appear in retailer listings
The brand has also produced shoes with independent designer David Mateo. In 2020 it made a four-bag collection with Pamela Anderson.
Distribution
Retailer listings show the bags stocked by specialist vegan fashion shops.
Frequently asked questions
Where is ASHOKA from?
ASHOKA is a French brand whose bags are described as designed in Paris and crafted in Italy.
Who founded ASHOKA?
ASHOKA was founded by Gwenäelle Ferlicot, who works on the brand with her husband Frédéric.