The Leather Atelier reinterprets traditional rawhide accessories with a refreshing twist. The tan and white hand-painted tank top worn by Noelle Hindi was made expressly for our photo shoot, and is the ideal example. “I am either creating a one-off piece for a client or customizing pieces through collaborations with other brands,” says Hindi. Since launching in 2012, the company has partnered on projects with major names including Maybelline New York and the National Ballet of Canada, and is rapidly garnering industry recognition. This year, The Leather Atelier is nominated for the Emerging Accessory Designer of the Year award at the 2015 Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards.
On finding her niche:
“My background in the visual arts, specifically painting and illustration, guides my approach as a designer. Manipulating the surface of leather through painting and laser etching has set The Leather Atelier apart—enabling us to develop unique illustrations, patterns and textures that cannot be duplicated. It defines our signature look.”
On cultivating excellence:
“I’ve always wanted to run my own business within a creative industry, and now I’m doing it. Getting to this point hasn’t been as clear a path as I had imagined, but the challenges show me what I’m capable of achieving. Staying motivated, setting goals to work towards and surrounding myself with the right resources have all been important parts of my journey so far.”
On personal satisfaction:
“Being in control of my brand’s vision and direction is the most rewarding part of my work. I have the freedom to develop new methods and techniques that push my designs even further; I get to use my hands to create.”
Visit theleatheratelier.com to learn more, and shop online.
Feature image photography by Kourosh Keshiri, hair and makeup by Jodi Urichuk (Plutino), styling by Hazel Ong (Plutino).