Award/​t

Twenty years ago, Els Van Den Berghen and her mother Wies Dehert started their label Award/​t. Starting out as hatters, they later added designing handbags to their portfolio. Today, the brand is known all over Flanders. Award/​t are handmade hats, handbags and scarves, designed and produced in Belgium. 

This brand also proudly carries the Handmade In Belgium label. Since 2018, the brand launched a basic collection. Timeless and practical bags for all days and all seasons, don’t they look fantastic?

Award/​t handbags are available in different types of leather. For example, cow leather from Belgium, Italian calf leather, and Fish leather from Atlantic Leather such as salmon. They also experiment with vegan alternatives like Pinatex. 

Because Award/​t uses only leather, the bags are potentially recyclable after use. The blend of different materials in the vegan bags are detrimental to recyclability.

In addition, the brand also offers a repair service. You can visit the atelier for repairs or servicing if needed. Designers Els and Wies lovingly take care of your bag so you can shine with it for longer.

All custom made pieces and orders were made in the workshop in Mechelen by Wies and Els themself. The basic collections and iconic Award/​t pieces are made in a studio in Brussels. The production takes place entirely in Belgium and is therefore subject to European labour legislation. 

Due to the frequent use of leather, Award/​t does not score very well on animal wellbeing. The brand does take steps in the right direction by using mostly European leather. In addition, the brand also offers vegan alternatives.

Award/​t has several permanent collections that are complemented by new designs. For instance, there is the Basics collection where you will find handmade handbags for every occasion. The Signature line contains more iconic designs for women who like to add a statement piece to their outfit. 

You can also have a handbag designed at Award/​t exactly according to your wishes. The personalised designs are completely unique, so you can really have the bag of your dreams made!

Finally, at this Belgian brand you will also find a bridal collection with unique hats and bags for your special day, and a stylish men’s collection.

About the production conditions, Award/​t is very transparent. All items are designed and handmade in Belgium, in good working conditions. 

Unfortunately, the brand is less transparent about the origin of the materials. The leather sector is still one of the least transparent industries, making it very difficult for a small brand like Award/​t to obtain information.