Those who come across Kooreloo bags, will often liken them to pieces of art. Born out of the creative mind of Greece-based Lila Karagianni, who uses the artist name, Leila Karr, the handbags are an enamouring mixture of European chic and centuries-old Mediterranean tradition.
At one point Karr was working in the Financial Services Sector, but she longed for a life more colourful. She decided she had no choice but to pursue strictly creative endeavours, honing her skills as a painter before eventually launching her label, Kooreloo. During her constant search for inspiration, she came across a common, yet extraordinary household object in traditional Greek homes – the boldly hued rag rugs – or “kourelou” – and decided to turn them into something spectacular.
The beauty and tradition of age-old technique and local craftsmanship is woven into the very fibres of every Kooreloo handbag, where brightly coloured textiles are combined with natural materials and reborn with a fashionable new lease of life. She considers them to be an extension of her own idiosyncratic personality, brought to life through locally-sourced materials, traditional weave and luxurious, one-of-a-kind fabrics.
What’s more, there is a secret hidden inside each of Karr’s bags! A rich, inner world emanates from within – where her gloriously unique linings have taken inspiration from the Goddess Athena and her imposing posture reflected in statues across Greece.
“The idea of creating an object which will give other women an outpouring of positive emotions excites me,” says Karr. “When I design my handbags I have butterflies in the stomach… Everything I design is destined for the dynamic women of today’s world, women capable of identifying and appreciating original artwork and conceiving its distinctiveness. Kooreloo is for women who dare to be different!”
From the ancient-inspired linings to the colourful embroideries that embody Athena’s aura, every little detail in Kooreloo creations unveils a story to be told.
Written by Thea Carley
