There are few things that are a rite of passage for a girl: a first kiss, the first time you wear makeup, those very first pair of heels. But we're suggesting another first: owning a Clare Vivier clutch. After realizing that there weren't any chic or stylish bags to carry her laptop in, Clare Vivier did what any creative girl with a sewing machine would do: she created her own. "I knew how to sew, and I knew what I wanted, so I started making bags!"she revealed to us. "And when everyone started asking me for them I knew I could turn my creations into a business, so I found a manufacturer in LA that would produce them." The clutches soon became fashion girl must-haves. The combination of luxurious leathers in unexpected color combinations, practical sizes and a monogram service set Vivier's clutches apart from the competition, and have become the brand's signature piece.
Fast forward seven years, and Vivier is still making her mark. The designer has rebranded her label 'Clare V.,' jumped into the men's market with a collection of duffel bags, iPad cases and laptop clutches, "a lot of mens bags have too many pockets, almost a pocket for everything!, and my male friends were asking if I could make a bigger version of my duffel bag for them—which is very simple—so I did!," and last night opened a new store in New York's Nolita neighbourhood. Just like her bags, Vivier's store is full of character and personality. An inspiration wall is filled with snaps from Vivier's own wedding and vacations, as well as handwritten notes and dreamy images, "it's a visual representation of the Clare V. girl," said Vivier, while candles, jewels, hats and books from some of her favorite designers are scattered around the store.
The designer has also released a new bag style, The Madeleine (shown below, which we're currently obsessing over), and an adorable video starring actress Mamie Gummer. But what we love most about Vivier is the fun and playfulness the designer has infused into the brand. A perfect mix of classic, chic silhouettes, stunning leather and on-point colorways make Clare V. the essential label for any girl to tote her goods in. And who doesn't feel more special with a great bag to carry?
Shown above: Clare V.'s new Nolita store, a collection of clutches, and the 'Madeleine' tote.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
-
13 Spring Travel Essentials I'm Scooping Up for My European Vacation
Sunglasses, sneakers, and sundresses.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
Amid Dire Reports About His Health, the Palace Issues a Wide-Ranging Update on King Charles
The news was accompanied by a never-before-seen photo of the King and Queen Camilla, taken the day after their 19th wedding anniversary this month.
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Anne Hathaway Says This ‘The Idea of You’ Sex Scene Is the “North Star” for “Cinematic Sex”
The actress said it “makes it about her pleasure.”
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
The J.Crew Sale Has Everything on My Spring Outfit Mood Board
The perfect fashion destination to shop for warm-weather looks.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
20 Trending Shoe Styles From Sam Edelman’s Major Spring Sale
From sandals to pumps to sneakers, the footwear brand now has over 500 markdowns to shop.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Fashion Editors' Full-Proof Formula for Elevated Going-Out Outfits
Part of growing up is realizing that style and comfort can coexist.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Stylists on Why Leather Jackets Are a Great Investment
Fashion insiders weigh in on their favorite styles.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Grown-Ups Are Rediscovering the Charm of Peter Pan Collars
From bibbed button-downs to round-neck leather jackets, this year's takes feel more sophisticated than sweet.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Sabrina Carpenter Wears Vintage Victoria's Secret Lingerie to Tease Upcoming Coachella Performance
Her look was pulled from the brand's 1997 archives.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is Out
Another footwear trend embracing maximalism in 2024.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Brands to Shop for the Best Swimsuits
From size-inclusive labels to sustainable and designer options, this list is all-encompassing.
By Lauren Tappan Published