Somewhere between a shoulder bag and tote, the Frances Bag first debuted four years ago. Defined by its rolled shoulder straps, pinched and sewn directly into the body of the bag, the silhouette creates soft pleats that emphasize the natural drape of the leather. Since then, the original form has evolved into the Frances Tote and Frances Baguette. Different in scale and proportion, but connected through the same foundation.

“It all begins with a simple pencil drawing in my  sketchbook, conceptualizing a design. From there, a more detailed pencil rendering on graph paper is made to figure out the exact curves, specifications, and measurements - a process that involves a lot of erasing and redrawing. Alejandro, our manufacturing partner, uses that pencil rendering to begin the process of making a pattern and a sample.  I usually go through 3-4 rounds of various edits to the samples before I land on the final one with the details, proportions, quality and craftsmanship that Are Studio is now known for.  Then I test-wear the samples to make sure the functionality, strap length, durability and versatility of the design is exactly the way I want.”

“During production of the seasonal collection, which takes 2-3 months, I am in and out of the factory, dropping off materials, meeting with Alejandro about the schedule and any issues that may arise during manufacturing. He and I have developed a deep mutual understanding and respect over the years - he understands my design language and aesthetic and is able to keep this in mind while drafting patterns, making samples for me, and ultimately producing everything. I am so grateful to him for his unwavering support of my design vision, always making the impossible possible with tight deadlines and difficult challenges. We are both very much dedicated to the development and production partnership we’ve fostered for over ten years and I’m so pleased to continue that meaningful relationship, utilizing Alejandro's technical expertise and keeping production a very short distance from our downtown LA studio.”