FROM THE FIRST IDEA TO THE FINAL BAG
How a bag comes about? Lies guides you through the process from first idea to final bag
In our Antwerp atelier
16 MONTHS BEFORE
It all starts with a shape that’s been on my mind for a while. I translate my mental pictures into sketches on paper. After I’ve researched sizing and functional design elements, I create a paper prototype true to size. This prototype accurately visualizes the bag and is the perfect tool to determine whether the design works or needs further adjustments.
The first leather samples
10 MONTHS BEFORE
While developing the prototype, we consider the types of leather and colors that might work for the design. We discuss different finishes and colors with our tannery and order various samples.
Tanning leather is a complicated and time-consuming process. To guarantee premium quality and a minimal impact, we aim for long-lasting and personal relationships with a small set of leather suppliers. Working with companies that understand our product and our company values is indispensable at this stage.
The first prototype in Portugal
9 MONTHS BEFORE
When the paper prototype is final and we have decided on the leather finish and color, I head to our production atelier in Portugal. Together we create the first leather prototype. It’s crucial for me to be present in-person to coordinate the entire process. I can ask questions and make changes on the spot. My presence combined with our atelier’s many years of experience in leatherworks, makes our first leather prototype spot-on.
THE FIRST PROTOTYPES ARE PRESENTED TO OUR RETAILERS
7 MONTHS BEFORE
Half a year before you’ll find our bags in-store, they are presented to the multi-brand stores we team up with. Their feedback is an interesting first barometer for the potential of a design.
In the same period, I test the handbags myself and use them on a daily basis -I don’t shy away from giving them a hard time!- for the next couple of months. I pay attention to the wear and tear of the leather and the functionality of the bag. If changes are still to be made, they can be tackled before production starts.
HANDMADE IN PORTUGAL
4 MONTHS BEFORE
All of our bags are handmade. We work with a family of experienced leatherworkers in a town near Porto in Portugal with whom we’ve built a lasting trust relationship. Our atelier is run by two sisters, Ni and Christina. Both of them are very skilled craftswomen, involved in the production process from A to Z.
Thanks to an intense follow-up, both digitally and in person, we can proudly guarantee honest and qualitative products, produced under safe and fair working conditions.
THE NEW COLLECTION ARRIVES IN ANTWERP: It’s in store!
SANTA HAS ARRIVED
At last, one and a half years after the very first drawing, the collection arrives in Antwerp! Upon arrival, all handbags undergo a quality check and are labeled. Every model and colour is photographed, described and uploaded into our online store. One of each gets a place of honor in our flagship store, eagerly waiting for a new life with our customers. The handbags destined for our multi-brand partners are packed carefully in recycled boxes and shipped off to the stores.
