How to launch a new luxury leather goods label? Invite 50 or so guests to Claridges. Serve a breakfast, all pink, down to the little biscuits, buns and milkshakes. Cast a crew of handsome male models. Dress them as bellboys. Then get them to model the goods, served up on silver platters, or carried six at a time, or pushed along on luggage trolleys. Chuck in a few Shetland ponies… And, voilà! Meet Hill & Friends.
Emma Hill, formerly of Mulberry, Marc Jacobs and Gap, debuted her new line this morning, six styles of which are available to buy now on Net-a-Porter. ‘Super classic styles with a dose of fun, all made in England. That’s what we’re all about,’ said Hill backstage, shortly after the ponies had cantered off.
Big weekenders, chain-strapped handbags, both mini and maxi, and satchels came in every classic colour (burgundy, black, navy) along with piercing pink and leopard print. ‘I wanted to show our brand in the hardware, so the clasp (a smiley face) winks when you lock it,’ added Hill of her multi-purpose (as in multi-useful) bags that retail from £495 with 70 per cent of the styles under £1000.
Luxury bags with a fun USP? Why not? These were uniquely British, and not just because everything is manufactured here. There’s a market for quality classically shaped bags that come with a large dose of humour. Only in Britain. Only at Hill & Friends.
