Interview with Kooba’s Abbe Held

In 1998, one of the most well known designer handbag brands came into light “Kooba”. Celebrities and even fashionista’s world wide can be seen carrying different designs from the brand on a daily basis. It’s remarkable to see that the brand started just 12 years ago and has already risen to the top.

Abbe Held, who is the creative director of Kooba, and her Mother were avid handbag shoppers that were on a mission to make their own handbag line. Not just any type of handbags though, ones that had a more vintage and organic look than what was already out there.

“The first creations of Kooba were a lot more structured”, said Ms. Held. Handbags were made in ultra suede, mens flannel material and were not made of leather. At first, the handbags were sold to Bergdorf Goodman and Scoop in New York City. Now, Kooba can be found in a variety of stores and online.

The first bag that really put Kooba on the map was the “Sienna”. “We received a lot of recognition from that bag”, said Abbe. Being that Ms. Held is the creative director for Kooba it comes as no surprise that she loves the long hobo’s the brand has to offer. She prefers bags that are hands free, and the “Bryce” is one of her favorites.

With the holidays just around the corner, Kooba has released a holiday collection. The handbags are all breathtaking, but I must say the “Malia” is my ultimate favorite. Ironically, Ms. Held also loved the “Malia” as well as the “Ivy”. “I love the “Ivy” because it has tons of pockets, it’s light weight and easy”, said Abbe.

My heart is swooning over the “Malia” but it was interesting to learn that it’s actually a reincarnation from the “Natasha” group. “It’s more of a softer, earthy looking version, with reverse seeming and bold hardware”, said Ms. Held.

For the Spring 2011 season, Kooba has a lot of plans up their sleeve. From combining past and present materials, to ladylike tailored hardware with slouchy leathers and perforated suede. We can also expect natural colors, buttery soft leathers, and tailored doctor bags.

Another exciting tidbit, is that the brand will continue to produce shoes. Kooba introduced shoes earlier this year and had an incredible reaction. When referring to the shoes Abbe said, “The shoes are sexy on the foot but wearable and comfy at the same time”. One shoe the brand will be releasing next Spring is the “Hayley”. “It’s a high wedge that ties up. It will come in taupe, black and red. It’s one of those shoes that makes a big statement”, said Ms. Held.

As for whats next for Kooba, it seems that the brand is going to be focusing on what they are good at. “Right now our hands are full with bags and shoes. and we are focusing on making them fabulous. We are also hoping for a retail store in the future”.

With more shoes, bags and possibly a retail store in the future, we have a lot to look forward to from this everlasting designer brand.