Dunhill Unveils ‘Leather Wardrobe’ Collection, Merging Heritage Craftsmanship with Modern Design

A Legacy Reimagined in Leather

British heritage house Dunhill, with a history dating back to 1893, has unveiled a new collection of accessories that reinterprets its foundational expertise in leather. Under the creative direction of Simon Holloway, the brand presents what it terms a ‘leather wardrobe’ – a curated selection of bags and carry cases designed to seamlessly transition between professional demands and personal leisure. This collection mines Dunhill’s rich history, which began with Alfred Dunhill’s saddlery business and evolved to cater to the burgeoning automotive industry, a pivot that cemented leather as the brand’s core material.

The ‘leather wardrobe’ concept signifies a holistic approach to accessory design, where each piece is conceived not just as an individual item but as part of a larger, cohesive system for the discerning individual. This vision extends beyond mere functionality, aiming to provide companions for a life well-lived, blending traditional British aesthetics with contemporary needs.

Architectural Sensibility and Functional Families

The collection’s design language is characterized by a restrained ornamentation, gently curved lines, and an overall architectural sensibility, hinting at a midcentury influence. This minimalist approach allows the quality of the materials and the precision of the craftsmanship to take center stage. The pieces are organized into distinct ‘families,’ each catering to specific uses and aesthetic preferences:

The ‘Alfred’ family offers reinterpretations of the classic document case, a nod to the brand’s origins in outfitting professionals.

The ‘Bourbon’ family focuses on crossbody styles and urban utility, designed for the dynamic pace of city life.

The ‘Heritage’ family delves into the Dunhill archive, reviving more formal silhouettes such as the envelope and the attaché, embodying timeless elegance.

Rounding out the collection are the ‘Duke’ and ‘Dispatch’ families, offering further variations in style and utility.

Craftsmanship and Materiality

Central to the ‘leather wardrobe’ is an unwavering commitment to material quality and enduring craftsmanship. The leathers are selected for their longevity, whether they are intended to maintain their pristine condition or to develop a rich patina over time. Every detail is meticulously considered, from the subtle steering-wheel stitching to hardware inspired by Dunhill’s iconic Unique and Rollagas lighters.

The production of these accessories is a testament to international collaboration and specialized expertise, with construction taking place in Italy, Switzerland, and London’s Walthamstow, where the handles are expertly crafted. This multi-location approach ensures that each piece benefits from the finest artisanal traditions and manufacturing capabilities.

A Vision for the Modern Gentleman

Simon Holloway’s direction for Dunhill has been marked by a consistent effort to define a contemporary wardrobe for the ‘discerning gentleman.’ His approach involves drawing inspiration from British traditions—ranging from the Henley Boat Race to the uniforms of the aristocracy and royalty—and translating them into modern, relevant designs. This involves a keen focus on material integrity and construction excellence, creating pieces that are not merely functional but are intended for enjoyment and a life of curated experiences.

Holloway’s vision, showcased through presentations in London and Milan, emphasizes a tension between formal elegance and uninhibited personal expression. His A/W 2026 collection, for instance, drew inspiration from Antony Armstrong-Jones, Lord Snowdon, exploring the interplay between aristocratic formality and unguarded artistic expression. This philosophy underpins the ‘leather wardrobe’ collection, positioning these accessories as integral components of a sophisticated, modern lifestyle.

Key facts

• Brand: Dunhill
• Collection: ‘Leather Wardrobe’ accessories
• Creative Director: Simon Holloway
• Manufacturing Locations: Italy, Switzerland, London (Walthamstow)
• Design Inspiration: Heritage, automotive, equestrian, midcentury, British traditions

This collection offers a compelling narrative for those interested in the intersection of fashion, design, and heritage. For architects and designers, the emphasis on material choice, considered detailing, and architectural form in accessory design provides a point of comparison and inspiration. Urban planners and city dwellers might appreciate the practical yet elegant functionality of the ‘Bourbon’ family for daily commutes and travel. Consumers interested in sustainable design will find resonance in the focus on longevity and the development of patina, promoting a more considered approach to consumption. The collection also speaks to the broader cultural conversation around craftsmanship, luxury, and the enduring appeal of well-made objects in an increasingly disposable world.

Source: Wallpaper – https://www.wallpaper.com/fashion-beauty/dunhill-leather-bags-accessories