My love for fashion began long before my business partner, Clara Hough, and I founded Shop Off The Record. Growing up, my mom custom-made my sisters' and my holiday outfits, carefully hand-selecting every fabric, trim, and silhouette. Watching her bring each design to life taught me that fashion isn't just about what you wear. It's creativity, storytelling, and personal expression. That appreciation stayed with me. I was always the one helping style everyone's outfits, whether it meant choosing the perfect handbag, jewelry, or shoes.
Launching Shop Off The Record felt like a natural next step. Clara and I realized shopping for luxury can feel overwhelming. Between limited releases, waitlists, and the pressure of buying "the right bag," something that should be exciting can quickly become intimidating. We wanted to change that. We see ourselves as the friend who knows where to source the perfect piece, but more importantly, the friend who helps you decide whether it's truly the right fit for you.
A handbag worth investing in begins with exceptional craftsmanship and quality, but it should also make you feel confident every time you carry it. Trendy bags bring excitement with bold silhouettes and seasonal details, while timeless bags offer versatility, beautiful design, and longevity. But who says you can't own both?
Before recommending a bag, we take the time to understand our clients, their lifestyle, personal style, and how they plan to use it, because luxury should feel personal, not performative. While budget is always part of the conversation, personal style matters even more. The newest "it" bag may be beautiful, but if it doesn't reflect your natural style, it probably won't become the piece you reach for most often.
Fashion should be fun. Luxury should feel exciting, not intimidating. The best handbag isn't the one everyone else wants. It's the one that feels right every time you carry it. The most worthwhile investments are the pieces that reflect your personal style, fit your lifestyle, and give you confidence every time you wear them. @shopofftherecord