Recently I was invited by popular Canadian leather designer Kat Marks to spend an intimate evening (charmingly dubbed “Leather Together”) with a group of bloggers and local influencers to create custom leather luggage tags. During the two hour private workshop, Marks led us through the process of making our own personalized luggage tag, under her careful guidance and watchful eye. She provided detailed step-by-step instructions on how to create our leather souvenirs and customize them so they suited each of our personalities. I embossed mine with “FANCY.” Obviously.
It was a fun night with a cool and interesting group of people where we got to create and laugh while enjoying drinks and applies. We were all trilled with the finished product and rather impressed with ourselves – at least I was. Marks was a natural at providing direction in a fun, casual and encouraging way.
I’ve been a huge fan of Marks since we were first introduced a few years ago. Her designs are imaginative and unique, and after getting to know Marks, I can say her work is truly an expression of her individuality and awesome personality. After all, she believes in “creating rebellious fashion without boundaries.” How cool is that?
Marks currently sells her incredible work, including bracelets, bow ties, neck pieces, lapel pins and bespoke pieces, online at Boutique Kat Marks and works out of her studio in Calgary. She’s also the brainchild behind LETHRBAR, an event experience and souvenir shop that invites guests to place their name or favourite word on a leather bracelet. I have a couple of the bracelets – and love them.
Marks has received tons of international press and been featured in many prominent fashion publications like W Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue Italia, Flare and i-D Magazine. She’s also worked with some impressive international fashion professionals and received several prestigious awards in the fashion industry.
Thanks again Kat and crew for a great evening – and my “fancy” luggage tag!
See more of Kat’s amazing work on Instagram @katmarksdesigns
Casey Wagar 