It started with a Singer sewing machine given to her on her 10th birthday. Lauren Merkin had not dreamed of being a handbag designer, yet in the summer of 2002 she found herself with a Columbia MBA but without the creative job she craved. In need of an artistic break from the career hunt, Lauren pulled out the old Singer and created her very first handbag. She named it Lorenzo- a classic canvas tote that seemed to have just the right mix of style and charm.

Almost ten years later the collection can be found in more than 300 retail doors worldwide including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales. Lauren attributes much of her success to remaining true to the core values she set out with. Both the Lauren Merkin buyer and customer quickly become devoted to the quality, timeless style and lighthearted attitude that make the bags instantly recognizable. Inspired by her loyal customer base, Lauren Merkin continues to create chic, understated clutches and bags that make the women who carry them feel effortlessly stylish.