On Zoe – stafford dress by ALC, juna sandal by Coclico, diamond drop earrings by Bluma Project.

On Zoe – midnight tank dress by Organic by John Patrick, kati sandal by Coclico, seki belt by Brave, dionysus earrings by Ashley Brodie.

On Zoe – wrap by Majestic, tank by James Perse, macon jeans by Raleigh Denim.

On Jamie – caleb blazer in cobalt by Steven Alan, chambray button down by V&V, bladen jeans by Raleigh Denim.

On Jamie – caleb blazer in seersucker by Steven Alan, chambray button down by V&V, bladen jeans by Raleigh Denim.

On Zoe - anza dress by ALC, drawstring dress by Suno, shoes by Coclico, jewelry by Ashley Brodie

On Zoe – cummerbund dress by Tucker, wrap dress by Tucker, shoes by Coclico, jewelry by Ashley Brodie

What makes your bags and leather pieces unique and special?

We set out to make the kind of accessories that we wanted to carry around. Our handcrafted line favors classic shapes, and perfect proportions that telegraph effortless refinement without flash or fussiness. It features a conspicuous lack of hardware, which makes our pieces lighter. We also employ different textures of leather in the same color family, so they are not only visually interesting but also exhibit luxurious tactile qualities.

What is important about the value of handmade quality?

When you buy handcrafted goods, you forge a relationship with the designer and the product. The value in buying artisanal handcrafted goods is the direct support for a high level of skilled craftsmanship and artistry. All of our items are made in small editions, not mass-produced. Your investment in buying handcrafted goods shows your appreciation and desire to support the creator and her trade at a local level.

Since V&V opened its doors, The Best of The Triangle Indy Week Awards have played a huge part in helping our business to thrive. Y’all have crowned us Best Local Women’s Boutique and Best Men’s Clothing three years in a row. We greatly appreciate your support and humbly ask for your vote again in 2013. It truly makes a difference! Voting ends Monday so if you haven’t yet please vote now. Thanks so much!

Merci beaucoup to everyone that participated in our Urban Ministries of Durham Day last Saturday. We’re so excited to announce that together we raised $2,000 for UMD! Even better? Our donation will be matched in kind, so in fact it’s worth a whopping $4,000 to our Durham neighbors in need. Thanks again, we really appreciate all the support for this great cause!