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Dooz designer and founder Rachel Borghard isn't interested in creating just another handbag. Her sculptural, defined pieces are informed by a fine-art background and a fascination with craft. And no one speaks to that passion better than Rachel herself. Learn more about the brand and the creative process behind each beautiful, intentional bag below.
How did you get into handbag design and what made you want to launch your own line?
My path to founding Dooz has been enriched by my background in multiple disciplines—from fine arts to fashion, furniture to ceramics—reflecting my holistic approach to design. While receiving my BFA in Fashion Design from Pratt Institute in New York, I had the opportunity to study abroad at the Danish Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, Denmark. This experience played a pivotal role in defining my sensibility, as I delved into the works of design greats like Charles and Ray Eames, Hans Wegner, and Arne Jacobsen. It was there I crafted a chair of metal and leather, a piece that embodied the essence of Scandinavian design and served as the springboard for launching Dooz over 10 years later. Working with different materials and forms taught me to appreciate the structural integrity and functionality that I now bring to my handbags. Launching my own line stemmed from a desire to create pieces that combine art and practicality, reflecting both my diverse design experiences and a love for innovative accessories.
Tell us about your design process. How does a bag go from an idea to a final product?
My design process begins with inspiration from various sources, including art, architecture, and nature. I start by sketching concepts and creating miniature paper models, a technique that allows me to explore different shapes and structures in three dimensions. Once I land on a silhouette I’m happy with, I then create a full-scale paper model to determine the final size. Prototyping in leather follows, where I work with my manufacturing studio to create a first sample. This iterative process involves multiple rounds of adjustments until the bag is ready to go into final production.
Your brand in three words:
Artful, Elegant, Functional
What are you most excited about for the future of Dooz?
I'm incredibly excited about Dooz's future! Firstly, collaborating with other artists and designers to create unique, limited-edition pieces is something I look forward to. These collaborations will not only bring unique voices to our designs but also foster a sense of community within different creative fields. Additionally, building a strong community around the brand is a key focus. I aim to engage with our customers through in-person shopping events and community events, where people can experience our products firsthand and connect with the brand on a deeper level.
