Jules Wallet in Light Blue

Sisters Sol Caramilloni Iriarte and Carolina Lopez Gordillo Iriarte from Argentina established the Iriarte Iriarte line of leather bags in 2009. These bags are meticulously designed and handcrafted in Barcelona, where traditional craftsmanship meets natural materials. Carolina, a designer and entrepreneur, moved to Barcelona in 2006 to study at the renowned Massana School, subsequently continuing her education in Buenos Aires. Sol was employed as a film set designer, while Carolina had recently completed a year-long apprenticeship with her friend, the Spanish couture shoemaker Muñoz Vrandecic. This led to the inception of their small venture, Iriarte Iriarte. When a quaint storefront became available at Carrer de l’Esquirol No.1, located on the same block as Vrandecic’s shop, the sisters converted it into a showroom and studio. They drew inspiration from Barcelona’s vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, characterized by the constant flow of people. The city, rich in history, also possesses a cinematic quality from the tales and eras of the past.

Iriarte Iriarte has been dedicated to the meticulous craftsmanship of leather bags and different accessories in Barcelona, from the initial sketch to the final detail. By reviving traditional techniques, the leather is hand-dyed using less harmful tanning methods derived from plants and natural materials. Having always designed and made their own clothing, the sisters emphasize the importance of using their hands during the creative process. Engaging directly with the materials and transforming concepts through their hands is seen as essential for Iriarte Iriarte. They believe that experimenting and observing what resonates and is practical with each design or idea reveals that when approached with care and precision, each piece becomes unique and enduring. The sisters explain; time is a commodity that can be both cherished and preserved, resulting in bags and accessories that are modern adaptations of classic styles.