SML Bags by Shana Luther

SML: Another Design Star Emerges from BK
Not easily expected, Everything carefully selected, No detail neglected

Brooklyn, New York-Tired of your handbag blending in with the surging sea of totes, clutches and hobos? Hmm, So was Brooklyn designer Shana Luther. After spying a vintage 1950’s-style curtain at a thrift store, Luther fashioned the drapery into a one-of-a-kind clutch with nostalgic ties to yesteryear. And the rest is history…

The Pennsylvania native journeyed to the Big Apple in 1995, to embark on her life’s work as a designer. She began to studying fashion design at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. Her classically trained skill set led her to dabble in costume design and she later stumbled upon her true calling. Luther’s natural inclination toward bold colors and fabrics eventually captivated the attention of local admirers…and Luther’s creations soon set the fashion world abuzz.

Under the SML Label, Luther creates delicate yet daring clutches that are an extension of her own personal style. “I love creating little pieces of art to tuck under my arm for an evening, and designing an entire ensemble around a well crafted bag!” she says. Made from abstract art-inspired prints and sumptuous leathers, Luther harnesses the perfect fusion of urban appeal and classic chic. Each bag is personally handcrafted in Luther’s Brooklyn studio, where she works to make each piece as she would wear it herself. “It’s important to me to ensure my clients feel they have purchased something designed especially for them, just as I would want it designed for me,” she says.

Luther showcases versatility in her constant integration of youthful 80’s inspired prints with classic yet vibrant pinstripes, exuberant florals, and richly hued leathers. Working with vivid textiles and sleek lines of vintage, she is able to incorporate even the smallest of the more intricate details. Supple leather is carefully molded into delicate appliqués; gem-toned buttons add an exuberant pop of color. Wooden studs bring an earthy feel to the otherwise lackluster forefront of her leather bags. Shana is fabulous at adding personal touches to her original pieces; she not only takes fun design risks, but also ties in natural and organic shapes to emphasize her art inspired creations. No two bags are alike, and Luther wouldn’t have it any other way. “My clients are fashion forward trendsetters who are not afraid to experiment with color and shape,” she adds.

Fans tout: “Luther’s work has a fresh feel, and her approach to clutches and carry-alls is highly authentic”. Shana expresses “My Fall collection is all about texture, print- and yes, pops of bright color,” like always. “We all know, there is an immense need for a little color when we begin to bundle up for Winter!”

Driven by her imagination and knack for what works, Luther stands behind her original creations that wear so beautifully tucked away on the body. Though they are durable enough to weather any given night on the town, the selling point of the collection is the confidence women possess in wearing something authentic and made in their own likeness. Shana takes pride in every piece; when artful prints, playful shapes, and vintage construction come together, the compilation of the elements work to give the pieces an overall pizzazz. Shana’s bags have a personality conveying artistic freedom, and are conventional enough to meet the current handbag demand. The look of the collection can easily be described as “anything but easily expected, with everything carefully selected, leaving no detail neglected”.

For more information on Shana Luther’s handcrafted creations please contact: Kimberly@POSHGLAM.com

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