Buy quality, not quantity. Although a popular concept today, it was novel when handbag designers Peggy Patterson and Judy Vojtech were growing up. This pearl of wisdom passed down from Peggy’s mom is the driving force behind W.H. Petronela—along with Judy’s mom’s advice to “coordinate your shoes with your handbag”—a notion that Peggy and Judy embrace when designing their collection of polished, ladylike handbags which have become KDHamptons new favorite fashion obsession.

“W.H. Petronela is a collection to last a lifetime,” shares Peggy. “We eschew hardware in order keep shapes as sleek and chic as possible, using the finest exotic materials such as crocodile, ostrich and python, so pieces can be passed down from one generation to the next. We’re also big proponents of adding details that add value—value in terms of making life a little easier, a little more organized. For example, shoppers and totes come with matching detachable zip-around pouches.”

Since debuting in 2010, W.H Petronela has expanded from its core group—sleek, sophisticated satchels shoppers, clutches and wallets—to include bucket bags, backpacks, travel pieces such as weekenders, tablet covers and belts.  Peggy and Judy’s designs are inspired by women whose lives are very much a reflection of their own: active, socially and culturally engaged, aware of runway trends, but able to translate those trends in a way that suits their modern, multitasking lifestyle. The designers are also inspired by colors and textures, often juxtaposing a classic shape in an unexpected shade such as lavender or coral at one end of the spectrum, to cobalt blue or fuchsia on the other, or by applying trims and details more closely associated with sportswear such as color blocking. For fall / winter 2016, the collection is divided into two color stories. One focuses on taupe, tobacco, dove gray and saturated shades in red, navy, forest green and purple; the other makes a statement for bold color any time of year, as key shapes turn up in vibrant shades of orange, yellow and aqua, among others.

Details include fringe and detachable chains on sleek clutches; totes accented with detachable mini clutches for day-into-evening ease; and shoppers accented with oversized tassels that double as key chains. Some of the pieces have hand painted highlights. Looking ahead to spring 2017, there will be additional travel-friendly cross body styles, as well as the addition of whip stitching as an accent to clutches, shoppers, totes and more.

Considered “accessible luxury,” retail prices range from $300 for a python wallet to $2,265 for a crocodile satchel. With an eye toward expanding its presence in select markets around the country, W.H Petronela currently sells online and in boutiques such Lola’s in Rye, NY and Francesco Santoro in Beverly Hills, CA.

W. H. Petronela also gives back. Peggy and Judy created, H. O. P.E., a nonprofit organization addressing the needs of at-risk youth. The group seeks to prepare young adults to become productive citizens by providing a working and learning environment where they can meet the demands of adulthood. With every purchase, the founders contribute a portion of the sale price to H.O.P.E. Women can truly look and feel their best, knowing that their purchase helps those in need.  Now that’s the kind of brand KDHamptons loves to support. Great job ladies!