Excess Baggage

BE & D'S gorgeous accessories have been worn by all from Lady Gaga and Blake Lively to Olivia Palermo and Charlize Theron, but creative director Steve Dumain's interest in bags first stemmed, rather humbly, from his mum. SEE OUR COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS "BE & D spontaneously combusted into reality," Dumain tells us. "I'd had a secret history of collecting strange pieces of vintage luggage and hiding them in my mom's walk-in-closet and closely inspecting all of her shoes. The clothing floated above me. This combined with my time spent in Vermont as a sculptor led me to making my first accessory out of pure necessity after one of my vintage hunting trips in Brooklyn where I reside. Creating shapes and forms that inspired me became something familiar." Dumain worked in film development, before launching his label in 2004, when he set about creating shoes and handbags "that are modern and relevant to us right now, but timeless and not soon forgotten". "Our ethos is about being classic but with a firm handshake and sometimes even a bite," he explains. "I believe in making objects of desire. I start by using the finest materials I can source in Italy or elsewhere. While there are many statement pieces in the collection, I love most when I can find the perfect balance of something so subtle and easy while still being exciting and coveted. I grew up on a horse farm in the country - but have really taken to being a modern nomad so I believe this sends breath into my work." Targeted at confident "women of the world", the latest collection features oversized leopard print satchels, tough-looking ankle boots, sleek iPad cases and slouchy studded bags. "I would say it's one part classic British detective series and one part Forties railway traveller," says Dumain. "Many women know us for our classic studs, others know us for bringing ruffles to handbags. I've always been attracted to classic shapes but I interpret or see these shapes through my personal sense of whimsy, humour and fantasy." YOU SHOULD SEE: Gwyneth Paltrow's favourite handbags... YOU SHOULD SEE: A month of Olivia Palermo's daily style... TODAY IN HISTORY: Which Victoria's Secret angel and actor were caught canoodling?