Deere Colhoun Handbags
Lindsey Colhoun, former partner and designer of Goldenbleu handbags, recently launched Deere Colhoun, a new collection of luxe handbags. Colhoun left San Francisco this past summer, settled in Malibu, Calif., and immediately started working on the line, which made its debut in September at New York Fashion Week.
Colhoun’s previous design success in the handbag market will certainly bring attention to the new line, but a refreshed vision and new inspirations shine through and give Deere Colhoun a distinctive look. The bags are a reflection of the designer’s personal style: classic, sophisticated and cool.
For the premier collection, Colhoun kept the line concise. Spring ’07 styles include the “Sienna” satchel (in two sizes), the large “Madison” tote, the “Carter” messenger bag and a clutch that doubles as a makeup bag. In both the small and large sizes, the “Sienna” embodies the classic yet stylish vibe that Colhoun set out to convey in her new line. The “Madison” is a spacious tote with a beautiful, understated design. It definitely qualifies as an oversize handbag but will likely be purchased for overnight and weekender use, as well. The “Carter” messenger touts adjustable straps, plenty of compartments for organization and a timeless look.
Colhoun privileges functionality. The straps on all the styles are extremely comfortable, and the shapes of the bags make them easy to carry. All styles have closures with premium zippers that don’t scratch when you reach into the bag. Colhoun chose linen instead of suede for the linings to make the bags lighter.
As a self-proclaimed fan of oversize bags, Colhoun recognized a need for organizational elements. She designed the bags with plenty of exterior pockets with magnetic closures or zippers and chose one-flap zippered pockets and hooks for the interiors. The hooks are for leather accessories, including a skinny makeup bag (perfect for lipsticks, lip gloss or pens), a wallet/credit card holder that echoes the exterior pocket design and a key chain with the Deere Colhoun shield logo. The accessories can be clipped onto the interior hooks for optimal organization and ease of access or can be attached outside the bags for even faster access. Next year, Colhoun plans to introduce a cell phone/iPod case that will clip onto the hooks. Wholesale prices for the accessories start at about $30.
Washed Italian lambskin gives the bags great texture, durability and a slightly distressed look. Spring colors include a yellowy beige hue called “banana,” a pinky salmon, a milky chocolate brown, a rich caramel and a deep charcoal. All bags include subtle silver hardware.
Wholesale prices for the bags range from $245 to $310, and suggested retail prices run from $545 to $685. For sales or appointments during Los Angeles Fashion Market, contact the Tricot Showroom in suite 612 of the Cooper Design Space by calling (213) 891-0663 or by e-mailing katie@tricotshowroom.com or vivian@tricotshowroom.com.
—Dena Smolek
