SO is once again delighted to spotlight Rock-born Shevanne Helmer and her two daughters Danielle and Michelle, the design trio behind the Helmer label. Their latest collection, which was unveiled on Thursday, October 10, at Sotheby’s London, is according to Shevanne, a cross-cultural journey, where contemporary African art and traditional African techniques combine with classic Indonesian craftsmanship.

Helmer was the brainchild of an organic and synergetic collaboration between mother and daughters, which began a few years ago on their first trip to Bali, where they fell in love with the island and its people. From their multicultural heritage that spans Norway, Jamaica, America and France, the fusion of their family’s backgrounds is dynamic and inspiring, and a strong foundation for the brand.

The Helmer brand is inspired and influenced by various cultures and destinations; a passion for travel and the constant search for cultural novelty and authenticity are the cornerstone for creating a handbag and accessory collection that embraces craftsmanship, whilst offering a perfect balance between style, functionality, practicality and a fashionable insight into various cultures.

Although Helmer was conceived in Southeast Asia, the vision has always been to produce and collaborate with different cultures in various countries and with the people and cultures encountered on their travels, all of whom have a strong foundation in craftsmanship. This latest collection signals the beginning of the second chapter of Helmer, notably a return to their roots and first love and to Africa where the journey commenced.

For this collection, Helmer used Kuba material, made by the Kuba tribe in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The creation of this special material is one of the few times that men and women there work together, with men weaving the base from raffia (the fronds of the Raffia Vinifera plant) in neutral colours and the women then embroidering, decorating and connecting the pieces to create the finished product. The almost square work of art is decorated with specific coded colours and motifs that have very significant meanings, which were used to communicate stories, historical events, poems, dowries, and also as a form of exchange almost like money.

This new collection is carefully handcrafted in Bali by local, family-run artisans who have been creating handbags for generations. “These skilled artisans are the foundation of our business and we are committed to promoting and helping our partners’ businesses to grow successfully,” according to a release from the company. Indeed, philanthropy and sustainability have always been at the core of Helmer; plus, a true commitment to “give back” to the communities in which Helmer live and work is an important aspect of the Helmer ethos.

The woman attracted to the brand is a dreamer who loves to travel, is a multi-tasker, is practical and drawn to understated luxury.

The latest Helmer collection meets her multiple needs as she transitions from day to night, and work to play, whilst creating a world of beauty, connection, cultural appreciation and understanding.

“We regard ourselves as creative intermediaries bringing beautiful and unique pieces to our customers from our travels around the world.” — Shevanne, Danielle and Michelle Helmer

Helmer Limited

@helmerbags

(+44)01138346222

11, Weymouth Street

W1W6DD, London, UK