From Brushstroke to Buckle: The Art of Details

What comes to mind when you hear the words luxurious, plush, well-appointed, or opulent?

Maybe you're imagining grand palatial interiors, the sparkle of the Crown Jewels at Buckingham Palace, or a radiant bride in a pearl and lace-encrusted gown. Whatever the image, they all share one defining trait: an obsession with detail.

Details tell a story. They elevate the ordinary. And while some people are naturally drawn to these finer points, for many, it’s a learned art—a sensibility that sharpens once you start to pay attention.

For me, it started at home. My mother was a gifted knitter. Every winter, she'd craft our sweaters, scarves, and mittens with care. I’d sit beside her, learning not only how to knit, but how to notice. She had a golden rule: the back should be just as beautiful as the front. There was never a plain or forgotten reverse side—always a stripe, a motif, or a continuation of the design. That idea stuck with me and became a guiding principle in how I design, how I dress, and how I create.

When I first began working with leather, I started with the basics—simple shapes, a zipper, a handle, and the challenge of perfecting stitches by hand and machine. But as I grew more confident, I became obsessed with what makes a handbag truly luxurious. The answer, time and again, was in the details.

Take fine jewelry, for instance. Walk into Tiffany & Co., ask to see any piece, and examine the back. It’s flawless. Some rings even have a small diamond tucked into the inside of the band—an elegant secret, just for the wearer. That kind of thoughtful, hidden beauty inspires me.

In the world of handbags, you’ll find the same level of care in truly exceptional pieces. Here’s what I look for—and strive to include in every bag I design:

The Quiet Markers of Craftsmanship

·       Hardware & findings – buckles, clasps, decorative grommets, and key holders

·       Zippers & pulls – smooth to the touch, satisfying to use

·       Lining material – chosen for texture, weight, and color

·       Pockets – both inside and out, sized and placed with intention

·       Feet – protective metal studs that keep your bag off the ground

·       Dust bag – because how you store something says as much as how you use it

Some may say these things are minor, even insignificant. But to me—and to many discerning eyes—they’re everything. These are the signs of quality, intention, and lasting beauty.

I may not own every luxury item I admire (some are far beyond my budget!), but I always take time to study what makes them exceptional. It’s how I learn. It’s how I grow.

So the next time you see something exquisite—whether it's a handbag, a gown, or even a teacup—look closer. Study the finish, the folds, the way it was made. You might just fall in love with the extraordinary… even if it’s just out of reach.

Warmly,
Carol