FASHTALKS WITH BRAVE LEATHER

When did you know you wanted to become a designer?

When I determined I could do better making my own products than buying what was available in the stores.

What is your favorite part about designing?

Seeing an idea become a product that makes people feel something special.

Where do you find inspiration?

From the materials we use; world-class products can only come from world-class materials.

“The only way to be a great and successful designer is to LOVE what you design and make – not just love the idea of ‘being a designer'.”

What was your previous work experience before launching your brand?

My company is 30 years old – I am 50 - my brand is pretty much all my experience. When I first started going to Italy to buy leather, the vendors called me “the boy from Canada.” I am still from Canada – just not “the boy” anymore.

What inspired you to name your brand?

I was the first person in my family to graduate from University. I promptly became a street vendor and when I told my friends what I was doing instead of “getting a job” – one of them said, “dude, you are BRAVE.”

What is the one piece of advice you would give to a new designer?

Saying you’re a designer is a really sexy and cool thing to say you do, and if you are doing it for that reason, you have a big problem. The only way to be a great and successful designer is to LOVE what you design and make – not just love the idea of “being a designer.”

What sets your brand apart from the rest?

Detail, detail, detail, and more attention to detail.

What do you envision for the future of your brand?

To continue bringing the consumers a flawless piece from the world’s finest leathers and hardware, master crafted to last a lifetime.

“Fashion is what YOU make of it!”

What were some hurdles you had to overcome in your business?

How many are there? From the pandemic to managing the business – we have certainly seen them all!

What is the most important thing you would like your brand to be recognized for?

Creating world-class products in Canada for more than 30 years – I never considered anything else.

How would you define fashion?

Fashion is what YOU make of it!

How has the fashion industry changed since you first started out?

When I first started out, if you had an amazing product with amazing design, people would buy it. I think in today’s world, those elements take a backseat to what I call the 'OMG factor'. (ie. “Did you see what ____ was wearing in their IG post?”)

Do you have a passion other than fashion or design?

Boats and my family, especially watching my boys play hockey.

If you could go back and tell yourself one thing before beginning your career, what would it be? 

Don’t change a thing!