Gamberini’s Chloe Bag – A Sculptural Tribute to Bologna

English Translation for:  ガンベリーニのクロエバッグ - ボローニャへの彫刻的オマージュ

Originally Appeared in: Mamagirl Japan, on 30 June 2025

Link: https://mamagirl.jp/prtimes/0000096446

Florence, Italy | June 30 – The flagship of the Leone Collection, the Chloe bag is both a love letter to its designer’s hometown and a fusion of architectural modernism and classical elegance.

A Work of Art, Conceived by Hand

At first glance, Chloe may appear to be simply a beautiful handbag. But at its core, it is a testament to artisanal labor—realized through a series of intricate processes, almost entirely by hand. Designed by Gamberini, who works between Bologna and Florence, Chloe embodies her design philosophy of “functional sculpture.”

“Every line, every curve has meaning,” she explains. “Chloe isn’t just assembled—it’s built, like architecture. From the internal structure to the final finish, every step is treated with respect and precision.”

A Sculptural Handle

At the heart of Chloe lies its sculptural handle—a true work of leather artistry blending tradition and innovation. Crafted in 29 stages by skilled artisans, the handle uses salpa, a regenerated leather material prized for its strength, elasticity, and moldability. Layered by hand, each component is cut, shaped, glued, and then polished in stages with abrasives of varying coarseness—yielding a unique balance of volume and smoothness.

Every bag begins with hand-drawn sketches and digital renderings, then progresses to the first physical prototype, shaped by Italian craftspeople.

Leather Wrapping

The exterior leather is skived by hand to the ideal thickness, then moistened and carefully stretched over curves with absolute precision. It must adhere perfectly—free of wrinkles or trapped air. Afterward, the leather is stitched along the handle’s dramatic curves using a free-arm machine, with zero margin for distortion.

Edge Finishing

The edge of the handle is finished through a multi-step artisanal process:

Grinding with a polishing wheel, first coat of edge paint.

Next, intermediate drying and sanding and a second coat of paint.

Final sealing and smoothing with heated tools.

This method ensures both durability and refined aesthetics.

Assembly & Attachment

The finished handle is attached to the body of the bag using concealed stitching points—striking a perfect balance between elegance and ergonomic comfort.

An Interior Built Like Architecture

Chloe’s interior construction reflects the same level of craftsmanship. Lined with soft-touch microfiber, the interior is shaped over a rigid 3D-printed mold to precisely match the outer structure. This invisible yet structural process creates a clean, durable interior that maintains its form over time.

Each One, Uniquely Handmade

Because every Chloe handle is individually shaped by hand, subtle variations occur—clear evidence of its non-industrial origins. These fine differences, only noticeable on close inspection, are what reveal the quiet power of true Italian craftsmanship. Each Chloe is a singular creation—built entirely from scratch.

Rooted in Bologna

Chloe is also a tribute to Bologna—a city rich in design, intellect, and tradition, though less known on the international fashion stage. The bag draws inspiration from the Fountain of Neptune and the lion statues that guard the city’s historic buildings. Gamberini’s lion emblem is a symbol of strength, elegance, and protection.

Bologna is home to the world’s oldest university, Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna, and its outskirts are known as Italy’s "Motor Valley," where Lamborghini, Ducati, Ferrari, and Maserati are headquartered. Nicknamed “La Grassa” (The Fat One), Bologna is also Italy’s culinary capital. This fusion of art, academia, engineering, and gastronomy makes the city a deep well of creative inspiration for Gamberini.

Now Available

The Chloe bag is available exclusively at www.vetrinamia.com
Available in three colorways: Black, Chestnut Brown, and Lilac Ash.

 About Vetrina Mia

Vetrinamia is an online platform showcasing high-quality niche brands from Italy and France. It offers luxury items defined by individuality and exceptional craftsmanship.

In addition to handbags, Vetrinamia is preparing to offer prêt-à-porter and footwear from over 200 unique European brands. Each season, a curated selection of items is released exclusively.

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 Website: https://www.vetrinamia.com