Introducing Charcoal & Shells
Ensis III
As part of Antwerp Fashion Festival 2026, Lies Mertens presented Charcoal & Shells, a new capsule within the ongoing Shell Collection research project.
At the centre of the presentation is Ensis III, a new edition of the Ensis bag, developed in collaboration with designer-furniture maker Jonas Van Put. Inspired by the shape of a razor shell, or Ensis, the bag is constructed from two leather halves brought together by a wooden handle. For Ensis III, the handle undergoes a controlled burning process, while the bag itself is made from charcoal leather and black Crispy calf, a rare leather that achieves a natural pattern through shrinking the hide. The piece will be released in a limited edition of 30, each laser-engraved on the inside with a unique number.