More specifically, April in Paris. And no passport is necessary because April in Paris is not a trip itinerary, but a true find for handbag lovers who appreciate look, quality, and craftsmanship foremost.
Beatrice "Bea" Amblard is the craftsman at the helm of this San Francisco based company, and she comes by the title craftsman honorably. With a career that began at the venerable house of Hermes, where she worked on styles from Kelly bags to small leather goods, manufacturing, and designing, Bea honed her skills and was eventually sent to the states by Hermes as their "Ambassador" to their new San Francisco outpost in 1987. At the time, she was only the second individual sent to the US by the company, and the only one to open their own store stateside.
But enough about Bea, because the bags are really what it's all about.
Made from imported french skins, Bea's April in Paris bags will last a lifetime. They are as elegant and timeless as any bag around. While some aspects seem borrowed from Hermes styles, they only go to show that what is a classic transcends labels.
The bag pictured above, the Natalie, is $9500, as shown in alligator. While it may seem like a steep price, it is actually very reasonable, and far, far less than similarly sized alligator bags...most of which are not made by hand.
Smaller, but no less spectacular, the Reno clutch in lizard, is the sort of bag you'll pull out for occasion after occasion. Like the Natalie, it too has the signature bee at the clasp (bee for Bea) which is like tiny bag jewelry, and made of sterling silver, or 18 karat gold in rose or yellow.
The Reno sells for $3500.
A style I love the looks of is the Manhattan Tote. Pictured in bright orange grain calf, with the surprise of red insets, this is a class act. I am a sucker for the lunch bag look...I love the sharp lines and geometric quality, a nice alternative to the rounded corners, and softness of so many current bags. I do admit that it is not a bag for everyone.
It's so bright and cheerful! It too is $3500.
I know there are people who will balk at these prices, people who will readily plop down thousands for a branded bag, but not for something less recognizable. April in Paris is probably not for you. It is for that person who has no problem spending a lot on a bag, but doesn't want to have to do it twice a year to feel current...and who may want everyone to know just how deep her passion for quality bags runs but not the depths of her wallet.
April in Paris bags are custom made to order, and the possibilities are endless. By working closely with her sources, Beatrice can request specific dye lots, so you can pretty much consider the rainbow your palette, and have the color done in any of the leathers and exotics available.
Also, on the site are links to the April in Paris Newsletter which you can subscribe to if you choose. it has some very good information beyond just new styles including local workshops, and tips for caring for leather and exotic skins.
Should you be local, or just traveling to the Bay Area, the April in Paris boutique (and workshop) is located at 55 Clement St in San Francisco. telephone 415-750-9910.
No comments:
Post a Comment