Vintage Airplane Fabric Bags
From Flight to Fashion: Seattle’s Boeing Legacy Reimagined
In the late 1960s and early ’70s, Boeing developed experimental upholstery fabrics for commercial airline seats—durable textiles engineered to withstand the rigors of flight. Some of these projects were tied to legendary carriers like Pan Am, TWA, Braniff International, and Western Airlines—names that defined the golden age of air travel. Instead of fading into history, these rare textiles have been given a second life in our hands.
At Crystalyn Kae Accessories, we’ve transformed these authentic Boeing fabrics into rain-ready, machine-washable bags that embody Seattle’s spirit of innovation. Each piece is sewn on vintage industrial machines we’ve personally rescued and restored, ensuring the strength and longevity these fabrics were designed for.
This exclusive collection is produced in very limited quantities—allowing you to carry home a piece of aviation history, reborn for everyday use.
Explore the Boeing Fabric Library: Vintage Airline Textiles & Prototypes
Sky Arches
Vintage Boeing upholstery fabric, 1970s — undulating geometric waves in bteal, lue, green and violet
Aerolinas Argentinas - Verdant Bloom
Vintage Boeing textile created for Aerolíneas Argentinas, 1970s — elegant tonal green upholstery with woven floral pattern.
Western Airlines - Orbit
Developed for Western Airlines interiors, 1970s — bold concentric circle motif in blue and gold.
Western Airlines - Paisley
Developed for Western Airlines interiors, 1970s — ornate paisley textile in multicolor jewel tones
From Flight to Fashion: Seattle’s Boeing Legacy Reimagined
In the late 1960s and early ’70s, Boeing developed experimental upholstery fabrics for commercial airline seats—durable textiles engineered to withstand the rigors of flight. Some of these projects were tied to legendary carriers like Pan Am, TWA, Braniff International, and Western Airlines—names that defined the golden age of air travel. Instead of fading into history, these rare textiles have been given a second life in our hands.
At Crystalyn Kae Accessories, we’ve transformed these authentic Boeing fabrics into rain-ready, machine-washable bags that embody Seattle’s spirit of innovation. Each piece is sewn on vintage industrial machines we’ve personally rescued and restored, ensuring the strength and longevity these fabrics were designed for.
This exclusive collection is produced in very limited quantities—allowing you to carry home a piece of aviation history, reborn for everyday use.
Time travel
Delving into the Boeing archives, Crystalyn was able to piece together the intricate details of the planes that once showcased these fabrics. It was an immersive journey through time, unlocking a wealth of information that breathed life into the collection. By connecting the fabrics to their original Boeing aircraft, the handbags became not just accessories but gateways to a rich aviation heritage.
a remarkable discovery
we discovered a beloved chapter of aviation history from an estate sale of a retired Boeing employee: a veritable treasure trove of vintage upholstery fabric samples for airplane seats from the late 1960's and early 70's. These iconic textiles are our muse for our latest handbag collection.
a legacy of sustainable handbag design
For the past 20+ years Crystalyn Kae has been crafting accessories that stand the test of time.
Crystalyn Kae's expertise shines through in each handbag, as we meticulously cut, stitch, and shape the materials into wearable works of art. Every stitch, seam, and finishing touch is a testament to the passion and skill that goes into creating a truly exceptional bag that will last a lifetime.
paying homage to iconic fabrics
Recognizing the historical significance of these vintage fabrics, we embarked on a quest to uncover the specific Boeing planes these samples were used on. The Boeing archives have provided invaluable insights into the aircraft models, cabins, and upholstery designs of that era.
We have slowly been able to identify the airlines and planes that once showcased these fabrics. By connecting the fabrics to their original Boeing aircraft, these new handbags are a way to experience the glamour and elegance of air travel in the 1970s.
handbags in Flying Colors
follow our journey as we breathe new life into these materials, carefully balancing their inherent beauty with contemporary design elements into bags and travel accessories that strike the perfect blend of past and present
