Hi, I’m Claire, the founder and passionate creator behind Claire Bags. Let me share with you the journey that has shaped my dream into reality, a story that began when I was just a teenager. 

Young Beginnings with Grand Ambitions

At the young age of 16, I began crafting my first bag in my small workshop at home, inspired by the materials I found at my grandmas home. What started as a hobby quickly grew into a passion. Each bag I made felt like a little piece of me, and I couldn’t wait to share them with others.

Crafting my first leather bags with materials from my grandma

Italy: The Craft That Changed My Life

Although I had always loved designing and stichting, I decided to pursue a business degree, believing it would be the most practical path.

But, as is often the case with passion, it couldn't be contained. It was a trip to Rome, Italy, a city renowned for its rich leather-making tradition, that reignited my love for craftsmanship.

The city’s artistic spirit, its streets lined with history and romance, overwhelmed me.

Rome was where I fell in love all over again not just with the city but with the art of jewelry handcrafting bags.

The moment I touched my first handcrafted leather bag in a boutique, I knew I was destined to create bags that would make people feel special.

Determined to delve deeper, I traveled across Europe, studying under master craftsmen who taught me the age-old techniques that now define my creations.

Walking through Rome with my new handcrafted leather bag

Building a Dream from Scratch

Returning to Los Angeles, life brought love and partnership in the form of my husband, and together, we embarked on building my dream.

With little more than determination and a love for my craft, I opened my first boutique at 28, located in a quiet corner of my city.

Those early years were tough—juggling family life with the demands of building a business, especially as my daughters grew up.

But each challenge made me more committed.

With every bag that left my workshop, I felt a sense of pride.

Opening my first boutique in Portland

Craftsmanship That Speaks to the Heart

Today, Claire's Bags is a haven for those who seek pieces with soul, crafted by hands that care deeply about every detail. My designs blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, each piece telling its own unique story. I use only the finest leather and materials, sourced sustainably, because I believe in crafting beauty with respect for the world around us.

Discover my pieces now

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