Abe Chehebar: A life story told in a legacy of handbags

Handbag Designer 101

Unlock the enigmatic world of handbags with your host, Emily Blumenthal, as we weave through the storied career of Abe Chehebar, the maestro behind AHQ - Accessory Headquarters's phenomenal rise. From the nostalgic walls of his father's Giselle Handbag Company to the dazzling heights of the private label industry, Abe spills the beans on making a personal statement through the evolution of the handbag industry. Listen as we unfold the magic behind showroom aesthetics that entice retailers and delve into the family saga that propels a business forward, all the while juggling the charm of luxury spaces against the practicalities of overhead costs.
Strap in for a masterclass in handbag brand rejuvenation, where Abe and I dissect the intricacies of reawakening dormant handbag brands and the meticulous process of cherry-picking licenses. He tears down the curtain to reveal the strategy behind iconic brand elements—think Louboutin's red soles—and the delicate dance with independent designers. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on striking the perfect balance between the safety of private labels and the daring gamble of branded inventory.
As our conversation reaches its crescendo, we pivot to the shifting sands of handbag trends and the pressing urgency of sustainable fashion. Leap into the future of design with the rise of innovative newcomers and engage in the hot debate around vegan leather's impact on our planet. We'll also illuminate the trailblazing Digital Product Passports and the power of transparency in carving a niche for a brand. From pricing strategies to market exits, this episode is your backstage pass to the meticulous orchestration of the handbag symphony, where every stitch in time ensures a bag's rightful place in the spotlight. You don’t want to miss it!
Connect with Abe:
ahq.com

https://www.instagram.com/ahqcompany/

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https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/category/all-products

Register for the Handbag Designer 101 Masterclass:

https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/challenge-page/Masterclass

Book a handbag session with Emily:

https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/

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https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/speaking

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Luvut

1. Handbag Designer 101 (00:00:00)

2. Brand Evaluation and Resuscitation Opportunities (00:07:16)

3. Handbag Market Trends and Sustainability (00:11:56)

4. Handbag Design, Pricing, and Industry Trends (00:21:15)