DEFEA by Kipling [Photo provided to China Daily]

The Belgian handbag brand Kipling celebrated its 30th birthday in Beijing in March with an event that showcased the history of the brand and its latest products, including a special collection for the Asian market.

It also held workshops that let guests make their own bags.

Kipling, founded in Antwerp and named after British writer Rudyard Kipling, is best known for its crinkled nylon bags.

Since its entry into China in 2003, Kipling has opened 300 stores. It also has a store on Tmall.com.

Richard Macey, the president of Kipling, says that China is now one of its top markets.

Chinese customers prefer backpacks and smaller bags compared with customers in other countries, and they attach great importance to quality, he says.

"The combination of functionality and style is what makes the brand's bags different," he says.