2008 Floto Collection - General Press Release

Handmade in Italy using fine Italian leathers and fabrics, the Floto Collection provides an updated twist on timeless, old world classic designs appreciated for handsome lines, feminine appeal, chic styling and durable nature. Floto bags and accessories are born from quality Italian craftsmanship - authentic, original, classic, worn and always sexy. Whether in the city, on the go or in the air - the perfect accompaniment should always represent your personal style and mood.

It all started in 1997 when Joe Floto took a trip to Italy and brought back what later became the inspiration for the Venezia Duffle. While in Florence, Joe stumbled upon the perfect travel bag - moderately priced, rugged, and vintage yet modern. Over the years, Joe noticed two things - his leather duffle began to look better as it aged and he couldn't take it anywhere without someone asking about it - Where did you get that bag? How much was it? Where can I get one? Realizing an opportunity to try something new and fun, Joe left a job on Wall Street in 2001 to start Floto Imports.

Over the years Floto has expanded its line from the original Borsa Collection to include the Mini Collection, the Forum Brief Collection, the Milano and Firenze Wallet Collection, and the new Resort Collection.

The original Borsa Collection consists of thirteen travel bags complete with distinctive hardware and finishing’s. Hand-crafted in Tuscany using Italian calf-skin leather, Floto luggage is old-world quality for today's fast lifestyle. Over time - the more distressed the better. The marks, worn seams and traveled look age with the bag to create an even more attractive version then the first time it's worn.

The Mini Collection consists of seven handbags that match the Borsa Collection. Made with the same Italian calf-skin leather they compliment the larger travel bags and are proving to be more popular every day.

The Forum Brief Collection was designed under the philosophy that older is better. Hand-crafted in Tuscany using Italian calf-skin leather, Floto briefs provide an updated twist on timeless designs. Consisting of five silhouettes in up to three colors, they are simple, classic, and make a lasting impression in the boardroom.

The Milano and Firenze Wallet Collection compliment the Floto line with its impeccable detail and flawless construction. Milano wallets are made with calf-skin leather and come in three silhouettes and two colors. Firenze wallets are made with pure aniline dyed Italian nappa lambskin and come in nine silhouettes and up to eight colors. Firenze wallets stand out because of the aniline dying process. Aniline is the highest quality natural dye that can be used in the tanning process - which makes the leather soft and rich in color.

The Resort Collection consists of six handbags and four travel bags. The Resort Collection is handmade in Northern Italy using the highest quality Italian textiles and leather. All fabric is milled in Italy using timeless techniques like Jacquard looming that is sure to please the most critical eye.

The Floto Collection consists of 52 distinct styles with price points ranging from $39 to $549. Floto bags and accessories can be purchased online atwww.flotoimports.com