Bags, bikes and beer in Portland
The Portland Movement, as defined by The Oregonian in a Sept. 27 article on fashion,
consists of “that trinity of custom-handmade-local.” Rebecca Pearcy resembles
that remark, as the Portland, Ore., founder of Queen Bee Creations, a maker
of custom bags and accessories and an avid bicycle commuter. Visitors to her shop can
watch employees cutting and sewing the faux leather, felt and canvas creations.
“People are hungry for a connection,” Pearcy says.
Queen Bee capitalizes on Portland’s recent ranking by Bicycling Magazine as America’s
Best Bike City, with more bicyclists per capita than any other city in the nation.
Pearcy’s waterproof bike bags, or panniers, have reflective side panels, colorful
graphics and contrasting top stitching. The panniers, made of PVC-free faux leather with
nylon-lined interiors, have handles for carrying the bag once the rider has reached his or
her destination. For bicyclists into the craft beer craze (another trend in Portland),
Queen Bee has a waxed canvas food carrier bag that fits a Portland Design Works front
Takeout Basket. It “conveniently carries a six pack of bottles, pumpkin curry take
out, an extra pair of shoes or a pack of diapers.”
