Kenzo latest luxury brand to launch cell phone accessories

(Courtesy of ModeLabs)

Storied Japanese label Kenzo is the latest high-end retailer to launch a line of stylish phone accessories, following in the footsteps of Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Gucci and Hermès. As fashionistas increasingly demand designer cases for their iPhones and BlackBerries, luxury houses are cashing in on the trend.

ModeLabs, a French manufacturer and distributor of mobile phones and related accessories with operations in France, China, Hong Kong, Italy, the UK and US, is partnering with Kenzo to manufacture a line of chic yet affordable phone cases that will debut this December.

The Kenzo leather phone covers are manufactured in Turkey and feature the label's signature whimsical flower print on the interior lining of the cases. The Origami cover, available in black, red and white leather, comes in a universal size. A dark red leather phone case for women is cleverly disguised as a wristlet. Relaxnews got a sneak peek at the accessories and can testify that the iPhone3, iPhone4 and Blackberry models all fit easily inside. The products will be available for sale in France at Kenzo boutiques and French phone service provider Orange. International launch information has not yet been released.

ModeLabs is no stranger to collaborating with high-end fashion houses, editing fancy cell phones like the TAG Heuer Meridiist and the Christian Dior clamshell, a Lady Dior handset in crocodile skin adorned with 640 Swarovski crystals (retailing for €18,000 or $28,360) and most recently, Versace Unique, the first luxury touchscreen and full-featured multimedia creation for the Italian brand.

The Kenzo designer accessories come at a more affordable price range of €19.90 EUR ($28) to €49 ($68), in comparison to Burberry's Nova Check patent leather iPhone case ($170 or approx. €125), Gucci's black rubber guccissima leather Blackberry case ($170 or approx. €125), Louis Vuitton's monogrammed iPhone case ($250 or €180), and Hermès' swift calfskin with goatskin lining iPhone case ($315 or approx €225).