Falling for Claris Virot: A Very Special Collaboration

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A few years ago, through the grapevine of good recommendations, I was introduced to the brand Claris Virot.

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A few years ago, through the grapevine of good recommendations, I was introduced to the brand Claris Virot.

. It’s the namesake label of Clarisse, a brilliant French designer who creates the most stunning bags, shoes, and belts. I was instantly smitten. Her beautiful bags and wallets have a true signature style, often adorned with a distinctive touch that makes them instantly recognizable.

Clarisse didn't start her label fresh out of design school; she launched it by pure instinct just after turning forty. As a mother, traveler, and fashion enthusiast, she simply couldn't find the perfect bag—so she had it made. During a trip to Bali, she collaborated with local artisans to create her ideal bright yellow python purse. That single bag sparked a brand. Since 2014, Claris Virot has been offering luxurious, handcrafted bags in beautiful leathers and exotic skins, all made with irreproachable quality and a vibrant sense of color.

Fast forward to today, and my closet is home to several of her bags, and I wear her shoes and belts with just as much love. So, you can imagine my excitement when Clarisse asked me last year if I wanted to design a bag together.

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How to Wear the Trend Unapologetically

When we first started brainstorming, I knew exactly what I wanted to create. I was immediately inspired by the idea of a shopper—a wonderful, practical woman's bag with enough room to drag around everything we need on a daily basis. Let’s be honest, as women, we carry our lives in our bags. I wanted something that could hold everything we need in a day, a makeup bag, a spare pair of flats, or whatever else the day throws at us.

For the color, I was adamant about grey. Grey is the ultimate neutral; it goes with absolutely everything, transitioning effortlessly from a crisp white summer dress to a heavy winter coat. Knowing Clarisse's expertise with materials, I knew she would find the perfect shade. And she did. It translated into the most beautiful, soft grey leather that feels as luxurious as it looks.

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How to Wear the Trend Unapologetically

When it came to the details, we wanted something that felt both classic and uniquely ours. We chose braided straps, which add a subtle texture and a touch of craftsmanship. But my favorite detail is the bag charm. I really wanted something special to mark this partnership, so we decided on a handmade flower. This flower, which beautifully symbolizes our collaboration and the spirit of AndBloom, now adorns the shopper, a matching shoulder bag, and a lovely, very practical wallet. Seeing the final prototypes for the first time was a surreal experience. The quality is fantastic. These are bags for life, handmade with so much love and attention to detail. Even the inside of the bags is absolutely gorgeous—because true luxury is just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.

Two weeks ago, I was in Paris for the photoshoot with Clarisse. There is something undeniably magical about Paris in the spring. Walking through the streets of the city with this bag set, everything just fell into place. The soft grey leather looked stunning against the backdrop of Parisian architecture, and carrying the bags felt incredibly right. It was a moment of realization—we had created something truly special.

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How to Wear the Trend Unapologetically

I couldn't be more incredibly proud of this collaboration with such an inspiring, beautiful, and generous woman. Clarisse has built a brand that celebrates women, quality, and individuality, and I am honored to be a part of it.

On April 8th, this limited-edition collaboration will launch on the Claris Virot website. I cannot wait for you to see these pieces and, hopefully, love them as much as I do. Mark your calendars, because these beauties won't last long!

Styling: Dayenne Bekker

Makeup: Richard Delas

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