Get to know them: 5 places to find leather accessories you can personalise

Are you looking for a new leather belt, a pair of shoes, a wallet, or another accessory that’s just a little bit nicer than what’s already in your closet? For yourself, or as a gift for someone you care about? Then you’ve come to the right place.

We’re spotlighting 5 Belgian brands that make leather accessories for women and men. What they have in common: craftsmanship, a strong focus on quality, and pieces that are often made to measure or to order.

Looking for a leather handbag? Then check out our selection of 19 leather handbag designers.

AESAERT

TIMELESS BAGS AND ACCESSORIES FROM GHENT

At AESAERT, the focus is on timeless leather handbags. But this is also the place to come for other leather accessories: think gloves, clutches, wallets, pencil cases and key rings. This Ghent-based brand crafts practical, timeless pieces from Belgian vegetable-tanned leather. Not looking for impulse buys, but rather for pieces that suit your lifestyle and that you’ll actually use? Then AESAERT is the place for you.

So please do take your time. In the studio, you can try items on, compare them and ask for advice. And because no two people have exactly the same needs, many items can be customised to suit your taste. Prefer silver zips? A longer strap? Extra pockets? Or a unique lining that only you can see? It’s all possible. You can also visit the workshop for repairs.
When ordering online, you can also have a bag of your choice embossed with the name of the (future) owner or a unique word that only you both know the meaning of.

You’re always welcome to visit AESAERT in Ghent to view the full collection. You can also hire an AESAERT handbag from Dressr.
 

Lennertson

STYLISH, CLASSIC LEATHER SHOES AND BELTS

At Lennertson, it’s all about more sustainable craftsmanship and robustly constructed accessories. The Belgian brand has its products manufactured in a specialist workshop in Spain, where craftsmanship and quality are paramount. Thanks to the Goodyear welting technique, the shoes are also built to last and can be repaired if necessary.

The founders have deliberately chosen leather, a material that not only exudes character and quality but also offers the opportunity to give products a new lease of life. The range includes belts, wallets and shoes, amongst other items. Would you like to add a personal touch to your wallet or someone else’s? At Lennertson, you can have your initials engraved for a unique and personalised result.
One motto lies at the heart of every design: Rugged. Refined. This philosophy translates into a timeless style in which rugged details and classic elegance blend perfectly.

Looking for a pair of shoes that will last for years? Then be sure to pop into Lennertson’s own shop in Ghent and discover the craftsmanship for yourself!

Atelier Loulou

HANDMADE, BESPOKE LEATHER BELTS

Atelier Loulou in Kortemark specialises in handmade leather belts, each crafted with an eye for detail and personality. Loulou works mainly to order and creates both minimalist belts and bold, eye-catching body jewellery. Some designs even offer space for a personal message. For example, have a fun phrase or a drawing of your choice added to your belt, so you can always carry a unique, personal piece with you.

Loulou selects the leather she works with herself, including at leather fairs in Milan. For some belts, she uses offcuts of leather in vibrant colours. Would you like to give your leather accessory a personal touch? Then Atelier Loulou is the right place for you to collaborate on the design.

You can find Atelier Loulou online at Dressr and at her own studio in Kortemark.

Sofie Darche

HANDMADE LEATHER ACCESSORIES FROM ANTWERP

At Sofie Darche, you’ll find handmade leather accessories that will last a lifetime: from bags and wallets to key pouches and glasses cases. With her eye for detail and precision, Sofie creates unique, high-quality pieces. To achieve this, she carefully selects her leather, often European chrome-tanned leather or naturally tanned offcuts.

The Antwerp-based brand works exclusively to order to avoid overproduction. This means every piece is made especially for you. What’s more, you can have certain accessories, such as a key ring, personalised with your own text. This gives your leather accessory an extra personal touch.

Curious about her collection? Then be sure to pay a visit to the flagship store in Antwerp or discover her creations at Valerie Berckmans in Brussels. Prefer to try it out first? You can also hire a Sofie Darche bag via Dressr.

An Vandenberk

BESPOKE LEATHER BAGS WITH A STORY TO TELL

An Vandenberk creates bespoke leather handbags, each with its own story and character. She works with old leather clothing, deadstock and leather to craft unique bags tailored to your wishes. These are distinctive pieces for those looking for something truly personal. Have a specific design in mind? An creates the bag you’ve always dreamed of.
 

Every bag is made on demand, and An also offers repairs and alterations for leather items. Whether you have a clear idea of your dream bag or want to give a favourite piece a new look, you can work with An to explore the possibilities.

Looking for a leather handbag that is made especially for you? Make an appointment via An’s website and visit her atelier in Schaerbeek to discover her work and discuss your ideas.