Rheom Materials and New Climate Ventures have announced that their online auction of The Black Orchid, a unique luxury handbag designed by LUCKYNELLY and made with Shorai™, raised $1805 for the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. The winning bid was placed by Maryann Wilcox, whose generosity will directly support communities affected by the devastating July floods in Texas Hill Country.
The Black Orchid was conceived and handcrafted in Berlin by Christine Rochlitz, the founder of LUCKYNELLY. Since establishing the label in 2012, Rochlitz has gained international recognition for her vegan luxury handbags, with her work showcased in leading publications such as Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, British Vogue, and ELLE. Her designs have also featured on the runways of New York, Paris, and Berlin Fashion Week.
The handbag itself was crafted from Shorai™, Rheom’s next-generation leather alternative with a 91% biobased composition. Produced in a rich black hue, Shorai™ combines elegance with sustainability, achieving around 50% biodegradation within 210 days under home composting conditions. Rochlitz reflected on the project: “I will forever carry the memory of this project with me. The Black Orchid is not just a bag — it’s a testament to what happens when creativity is driven by heart and hope.”
The auction was held during the New Climate Ventures Afterparty at Houston Energy & Climate Startup Week, highlighting the collaborative spirit between climate innovation and creative design. Proceeds will be directed to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, which has already distributed over $10 million to assist flood victims, local businesses, and rebuilding initiatives.
By blending artistry, innovation, and social responsibility, the collaboration between Rheom Materials, New Climate Ventures, and LUCKYNELLY demonstrates how sustainable design can directly support communities in need.
