Digerolamo: exquisite leather bags handcrafted in Florence

Not long ago, I entered a contest on Instagram after watching the stories of Georgette aka girlinflorence. The prize was a lovely small crossbody bag, called Sofia, by Digerolamo, a Florentine brand producing handmade leather bags. And guess what, for once in my life I won! I already showed you the bag on Facebook and Instagram, but then I thought it was only fair to write an article about this exquisite product since it also has an intriguing story.

Digerolamo story and philosophy

The artisan behind Digerolamo is Clara Soto. She was born in Ecuador from Argentinian parents. Her great grandfather was Italian, though. And he worked leather, he was a shoemaker. In a way, she felt the call of leather and decided to go back to her Italian origins, moving to Florence an attending a leather working school. So, when she decided to open her own workshop, the most fitting name was her great grandfather last name, Digerolamo.

I read some online articles about Clara and I was very impressed by her philosophy. She tries to balance elegance and sophistication, to obtain practical bags, which can be worn in different ways, to meet the needs of modern ladies. And also, bags that can be at the same time classical and playful, exactly like a woman.

Sustainability

In order to promote sustainability, the material used to color the bags is vegetal, without any toxic substance. And the techniques to make each bag are completely artisanal, according to traditional methods. This grants a sustainable rhythm of production for the artisans. It follows that every piece is unique, presenting slightly color shade variations, small marks or scars that are just natural features that distinguish each product. It is also perfectly normal that the leather darkens over time.

Before making one of her bags, she never draws anything. She draws inspiration as she works, from the material itself, from memories of her travels, and also thinking about the girl who’s going to wear the bag. So, in a way, it’s like the person who wears the bag is part of the story. I like to think about it when I wear my new Sofia.

My Sofia bag

I immediately fell in love with that bag, because it was simple and sophisticated at the same time. I absolutely adore the small holes that create a sort of embroidery, something you usually do not find in leather bags. The bag was hand punched and handcrafted in Italy from the highest quality of Italian leather, tanned with vegetable components and with Nabuk Suede finish. It’s quite small, but perfect for my daily errands downtown, when I just go out with mobile, chapstick, keys and wallet. And the color is just perfect, since, as you know, I love all shades of red.

If you’re in Florence and you’re looking for unique handmade pieces, you should pay a visit to Digerolamo boutique. They also produce jewels (handmade by Clara’s mom).