Acie’s Cabinet
Acie’s CabinetMore Info
Handmade. Unique. Belgian.
Hi!
Welcome to Acie’s Cabinet.
First of all, I would like to thank you for taking your time to visit my website. I really appreciate it.
My name is Amber. I’m a bookworm, cat lover and potterhead; I’m a creative soul and am a fan of nordic noir (or ‘noir’ in general, really 😉).
In 2017 I started my small company Acie.
In this digital cabinet, you can find all manner of accessories for yourself, your house or your family and friends.
After having received multiple trainings (fashion design, historical costume, leather works and bookbinding), I combine different trades in unique items.
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There are certain choices I make for ecological reasons. In my personal life, this means I never travel by aeroplane (or, indeed, seldom travel at all), and in my professional life as well, I strive to have a low impact on the environment.
The number of items I produce out of one particular fabric is limited, and never will two accessories look 100% alike. Because I create items in small amounts, it is perfectly possible to create different kinds of accessories with one fabric. I design and make everything in my atelier in Belgium.
Most items are packed in upcycled boxes, and are shipped with pre-used packaging as much as possible.
Materials
The fabrics I use are purchased or designed in small amounts. Not only does this intensify the uniqueness of the accessories, it also means I have very little “waste”. I save all the scraps of fabric that are left from projects, to create new pieces with later on.
Furthermore, I buy from local shops and fairs and often go to factory sales, to rescue fabric that would otherwise be thrown away.
Linen is one of my favourite materials to work with. Linen is made from the fibres of the flax plant. This plant does not attract a lot of harmful insects, which means farmers don’t have to use pesticides to protect their harvest.
Flax needs very little water and produces a lot of fibres. Isn’t that just great?!
Leather is a material that is often not considered environmentally friendly. There are a lot of chemicals involved in the tanning process. However, there are a few steps we can take to make it a bit less harmful:
The leather I use to create bow ties with, are scraps from a shoemaking factory. The leftover pieces are too small to cut into shoe panels, but are perfect for the creation of bow ties! Zero waste fashion: check!
If I need bigger pieces of leather, I go to local shops to purchase leather that is already on hand. This means leather is never ordered or designed especially for me. Sometimes I even get the chance to find some second hand rescue leather, which always makes me very happy! The scraps from these hides are also saved to produce small items with, for example The Book Manager.
If leather is cared for properly, it will last many, many years. By buying less but better, we can all help a little in our ‘Save the planet’-mission!
Schooling
As mentioned above, I received multiple trainings:
Fashion design
Bookbinding
Leatherworks
Furthermore, I did courses in millinery, historical costume, and I learnt how to mend clothes.
I always continue to learn. I think it is important to keep improving your skills, and thanks to the combination of courses, I’ve learnt a few tricks of the trade. Or, rather, trades 😉.
Please roam freely! The pictures on this website show the kind of items I usually make. You can place an order in my webshop.
If you see an item you like, but would prefer a different colour or material, don’t hesitate to contact me for a custom order.
See you soon!
Amber
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We are a Belgium based accessory label founded in 2009.
Our mission is to design and market leather goods with Belgian simplicity.
Our vision is a high-quality product made under fair conditions in Europe.
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About Us
Our story is one about great things. About handy things. About beautiful things.
But above all, about friendship. About four childhood friends who found each other in an unbridled passion for quality and craftsmanship. At Comme Quatre there are therefore few restrictions. We just make what feels true to us. No extravagant fuss, but unarticulated simplicity. With the feeling of being a bit special.
We like to design everyday objects such as a stylish handbag, spectacle box, key ring, wallet, wallet or handkerchief with a few striking features such as the graceful cowhides. A creative trait that we like to mix with our insatiable hunger for adventure, variety and entrepreneurship. Talent is present as well. Each in his or her own way. And love. Lots of love. For each other and for the products we create, and that’s a fact.
Our Story
exquisite & honestly handmade
Not only a brand, Comme Quatre is a creative, playful and human project. All our products are handmade by traditional craftsmen whom we admire for their knowhow, entrepreneurship and courage. Together we create a sustainable product.
#nowaste
A Comme Quatre handbag, just like a pair of glasses, key ring, wallet, wallet or pouch is a nice example of upcycling. Say again? Upcycling goes just a little further than recycling: transforming old and allegedly unusable materials into something valuable and often more beautiful than before. In this way, our cowhides are upcycled from meat waste into a sustainable material that lasts for years and can be broken down by nature after use. The hides are also tanned plant-based, i.e. without the addition of harmful substances.
timeless class
Six collections a year? Not for us. By designing our cowhide accessories to look beyond the latest trends, they are wearable every season. Slow fashion it is. Quality leather products are handmade by traditional craftsmen. For example, a handbag, spectacle case, key ring, wallet or pouch by Comme Quatre is not only fashionable, but also durable.
unique
Each accessory guarantees 100% supple leather and natural cowhide. Each with their own unique print and ditto character. The pattern of the cowhides are different for each accessory, due to the colour differences in the coat of the cow. So every handbag, spectacle case, key ring, wallet or pouch from Comme Quatre is slightly different and always gives a distinctive touch to your outfit.
Our Team
Miloud, chief workshop
“Working with natural products is what I have done all my life. More than 15 years have I been working in this atelier. I am in charge of overseeing the production process, creation of the malls, cutting the hides and leather, and the final inspection of the finished goods.”
Fatima, artisan
“I am the youngest of our team and still in ’training’, learning how to prepare the different components of our products for the knitting team. I love the fact that we start with a cowhide and finish with a bag or accessory which will be cherished by someone for many years. ”
Mbark, artisan
“I have been working in this workshop for more than 15 years. I am mainly in charge of the different knitting machines which we use on leather, cowhide and tissues. I love this variation in my job, and like the fact that we can participate in the creation process of the products.”
Belaid, artisan
“I have been working for more than 10 years in this workshop, but I have been in the fashion industry all my life. I am in charge of assembling the products. I like the interaction between the craftmen and the fact we actively participate in the design and creation process ”
Hafida, artisan
“I am assisting Mbark and Belaid in the preparation of the different parts they need to assemble, in between the different stages of the production, I implement the zippers and closures. I like the fact we create beautiful products.”
Our Values
Clinch
ClinchBaron d’Hanislaan 5 Antwerp 2000 Belgium
Ateliers & flagship store Rue de Laeken 86 Lakensestraat Brussels 1000 Belgium
Nathan – Baume
Nathan – BaumeMore Info
A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE.
Building on the past to express a form of modernity…
A reinterpretation that sublimates the lessons of the past in a burst of creative joy.
Such has been the approach followed since its creation when Nathan-Baume first presented its exclusive small luxury leather goods created from the finest leathers – notably exotic skins.
The range gradually expanded and includes travel bags, briefcases, computer cases, …yet the craftsmanship never lost his particular inclination for small leather goods, which require considerable skill and know-how in addition to an eye for detail and great dexterity.
Nathan-Baume took a new dimension with the launch of the jewels collection in silver and gold, accessories like silk scarves, gloves, hats, umbrellas…
Welcome to style and glamour, functionality and magic, senses and feelings. Welcome to you.
100 Avenue Louise Brussels 1050 Belgium
Head Office Grand Route 329 Lillois 1428 Belgium
River Woods
River WoodsMore Info
River Woods is an international and authentic lifestyle brand for the whole family, reflecting strong values as friendship, family values and the sheer joy of living!
River Woods’ origins lie in a bygone era, the North-Eastern American lifestyle served as a source of inspiration for the creation of the brand. Translated into a commercial and contemporary collection, River Woods since then evolved into a brand offering casual and city collections for the whole family. Men, women, boys, girls and even babies and newborns, the whole family can dress in River Woods.
The key factors of the growth and succes of the brand are a strict adherance to quality and a keen and exclusive distribution strategy. Through high-level multibrand stores and the well-known River Woods Company Stores, River Woods has put itself on the map.
The origins: An inspiring era
The wind blows through the lush crowns of the majestic oak trees of North Eastern America. This is the era of true friendship and strong values. This is the era of the origins of River Woods: authentic sportswear which embraces family, solidarity and the shear joy of living, and reflects the spirit of the true North-Eastern American lifestyle.
The beginning: Birth of River Woods
It was the 6th of December 1995 when four friends signed for the realisation of a mutual dream: their own fashion brand. By combining their years of experience and knowledge in the fashion sector, River Woods was born.
From Belgium to…: First menswear collection
On the 6th of January 1996 the trading began with the introduction of a Menswear Collection. Thanks to its strict adherence to quality and the perfect translation of the authentic American sportswear to the European market, it was an immediate hit. In fact, the brand began with an exponential growth in Belgium, The Netherlands and France.
New launches: Introduction of Women’s and Kids collections
The success of the Menswear Collection quickly lead to the introduction of a complete range of clothing for Women and Kids. River Woods became a brand for the whole family.
First Flagship store: Creation of River Woods Baby
Following the successful debut of the Women & Kids collections, in 2000 the River Woods Baby subdivision was created. This year the first River Woods Flagship store opened in Wijnegem Shopping Center, near Antwerp. River Woods continues its expansion through new partnerships throughout Europe …
Manufacturers & Distributors: The story of our success
As of 2001 a rapid expansion of the brand throughout Europe is established with a keen distribution policy. Focusing on high-end multilabel stores and the by now well known exclusive River Woods Company Stores has proven to be a recipe for succes.
New agreements: Footwear and River Woods stationary collection
In 2005 the license agreements for a River Woods Footwear collection and a River Woods school stationary collection are made.
Global Expansion: River Woods’ network
By now, River Woods has established a solid distribution network throughout Europe, and is ever strengthening its worldwide position by expanding its network outside Europe. It is now present in 22 Countries in the World : Austria, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, The Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and USA.
First RW Kids Store: New Opening
On the 23rd of January 2011, River Woods opens its first dedicated RW Kids store, at Wijnegem Shopping Center near Antwerp.
RW Casual Chic: New Opening
On the 29th of July 2011, a second River Woods Casual Chic store opens its doors in Knokke, Belgium. It offers exclusively the contemporary River Woods Ladies’ collection, and is an immediate hit.
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CELEBRATING WOMEN SINCE 2001
LolaLiza was founded in 2001 by three entrepreneurs who cherished the same wish: to design fashionable and affordable fashion for all women.
At LolaLiza, we believe that outer appearance reflects the inner soul, which is why it is our aim to dress confident women confidently. Each woman is beautiful, and deserves to feel alike. Therefore our customers can always count on the best service – with a smile!
Lolawhat? L-o-l-a-L-i-z-a !
Our name refers to two personal traits shared by all women: mystery and charm. While ‘Lola’ alludes to the sexy, mysterious side of women, ‘Liza’ highlights her gentle and kind-hearted personality. Women indeed have more than just one quality, and LolaLiza allows you to display them all, every single day.
EMPOWERED WOMEN
EMPOWER WOMEN
What makes us stand out? Let’s start with our ultimate favorite: the dress! Mini, midi or maxi, there is not a single piece of clothing that says femininity like the dress does. But women don’t just look their best in a dress, of course.
That’s why our collections always include playful jumpsuits, cool shorts, comfy pants and cute skirts as a fixed value in our collections.What more? Prints and color, of course! Each LolaLiza garment is defined by its unique print or combines the most beautiful hues and colors.
LOLALIZA IS A PROUD, 100% BELGIAN FASHION BRAND.
The largest part of our collections is made “in house”, in our headquarters situated in the heart of Brussels. We create fashion for women with spunk who love expressing their personality. For women who are not afraid to show who they truly are – beautiful in every way.
We design fashion for you. Women have the power to determine their own success and are even more empowered to do so in an outfit that allows them to completely be themselves.
Sexy, comfy, elegant, or extra festive? LolaLiza has got you covered on any occasion. What’s more? Our clothing is available in a wide range of sizes to ensure every woman can both feel and look good.
OUR VALUES
SIMPLICITY
UNITY
PASSION
EXCELLENCE
RESPECT
BUSINESS ETHICS
At LolaLiza, we highly value respect for our planet and our colleagues. That’s why we very much believe that doing business sustainably and in a socially responsible manner is the only way to continue creating our colorful and affordable collections in the long term.
Consequently, we think it is extremely important that the whole of our production process – from the tiniest button to the most complex print – is always in line with the International Labour Standards, which protect the rights of workers.
OUR COLLECTIONS
by our own LolaLiza designers? Our designers create all LolaLiza garments “in house”, in our headquarters in the heart of Brussels. At headquarters, they continuously deploy their creativity and expertise to develop refreshing, colorful collections.
Did you know that our collections are made
Our designers closely follow the latest trends, to which our clothing is constantly adjusted. New designs, fabrics, colors and eventually our collections find their origin when our designers merge their ideas with the latest fashion trends.
And things move fast at LolaLiza; new items are added to our collections each week. As a result, we can guarantee feminine, trendy and colorful fashion – day after day.
LOLALIZA FROM 2001-TODAY
LolaLiza has been celebrating women since 2001 and wants to keep the party going. Since the foundation of LolaLiza, our colleagues have been committed every day to help our customers dress fashionably and with confidence. Today, LolaLiza boasts over 100 stores across 4 different countries. We are a leading retailer in the Belgian fashion industry, but also leave our mark on the Luxembourgian, Dutch and French market.
The future is digital, and we are well aware of that. Besides focusing on our stores, we increasingly concentrate on digitalization, e-commerce and –to be even more close to our customers- personalisation. This way, we inspire thousands of women online on a daily basis through our fun and easily accessible web shop. In short, a lot has changed since 2001, when LolaLiza first started with only 7 stores in Belgium.
The timeline below illustrates how we have grown from a local family business into an international women’s brand.
Mieke Dierickx
Mieke DierickxMore Info
ABOUT
MIEKE, MOM AND MODERN LADY BOSS
Meet Mieke Dierckx, a 30-something Belgian designer with a big heart for leather goods. After studying interior and furniture design, followed by a master in jewellery design, Mieke started her own brand in 2012. Her studies influence her approach on creating handbags in a less conventional way. Being a boys mom and a modern lady boss at the same time, she loves to be inspired by everyday life.
In her latest collections, the 3D aspect comes to life
through a vibrant mix of clashing colours.
SOPHISTICATED, TIMELESS PIECES
At the beginning, Mieke experimented with a laser cutting technique to create new 3D patterns. This way of working clearly defined her first collections Couleur Caché and Alter Ego. While the playful scales remain, Mieke now uses other techniques to design sophisticated, timeless pieces. Understanding architecture and design, form and function are vital. In her latest collections, the 3D aspect comes to life through a vibrant mix of clashing colours creating an atypical palette.
DEDICATED CRAFTSMANSHIP
Every object, from clutch to crossbody bag, is designed with love by Mieke in her atelier in Westerlo and produced by dedicated craftsman in our atelier in Portugal. She always opts for the best materials and crisp colour combinations. After all these years, every item still is a recognizable piece of Belgian design that embodies the power of minimalism with the right balance of modern elegancy.
She experimented with laser techniques cutting out specific patterns in textile and leather to give it a three-dimensional look. This resulted in a collection of hand bags, wallets and scarves, some in limited editions and others as unique pieces.
Polderstraat 39 Westerlo 2260 Belgium
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Back to essentials
PURE MATERIALS
The more durable pieces are the ones we treasure. ‘They grow on you’. Natural materials absorb the traces of our life and leave a personal patina. They will look better the more you wear them.
Every piece will be unique with it’s natural marks. This is a sign of quality.
UNIQUE
There are as many unique DCEMBER bags, as there are unique women. Just like the interior of your house, you start from a base and accessorise according to your mood or season.
Beloved objects become icons for what we stand for.
CONSCIOUS
The way we consume makes us aware how we love and treat life. All our bags are handcrafted in Italy by local artisans and all materials are treated naturally.
With DCEMBER you choose for a transparent production process which is kind to people and environment.
“A DCEMBER bag is a lifetime piece with endless possibilities day by day, all over again.”
Who we are
DCEMBER is an Antwerp (Belgium) based design label founded by designer Florien Pénard and her husband Olivier.
HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN?
My inspiration stems from my walk of life. Born in the magic month of December, the love for pure materials was passed on to me from a very young age. Like the scent of wooden art objects carved by my father. Or the soft touch of the leather handbag my grandmother made herself.
WHEN DID YOU START DESIGNING?
Graduating from the academy of fine arts in the Netherlands, I pursued my passion for design at Kenzo in Paris and later on as lead designer at Dirk Bikkembergs in Italy.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE THIS COLLECTION?
When my kids, Zoé and Louie, started personalizing their saddle leather schoolbags, I started thinking … “I want that too!”
A companion, that is an extension of my personality and adapts to every season and occasion.
DCEMBER was born…
Florien Pénard