Materials matter to Atlanta’s Muriel Luxemburger. So does Old World craftsmanship. That’s why her fashionable and functional French-inspired bags make a statement.
The artist/designer: Born in Paris, Luxemburger studied academic art and design in Paris at the Atelier de Sevres and earned an undergraduate degree from the Ecole Superieure de Design.
After graduation she worked in publishing in New York for two years before moving back to Paris in 1992. Years later, Luxemburger moved to Switzerland and studied business management at the University of Geneva. She also took some classes in fine leatherwork.
The company: Atelier Luxembourg first started in 2008 in Switzerland as a linen collection for newborns and homes. When Luxemburger moved to Atlanta in 2013, the company’s focus shifted to leather goods.
The name: The company name is a tribute to her favorite Left Bank park, Le Jardin du Luxembourg. It is a coincidence that it is similar to her family name (Luxemburger), she said.
The goods: Totes, clutches, cross-bodies and purses ($150 to $450), often in subdued colors like subtle greys and chic taupe, for everyday or special occasions.
She recently added some metallics and colors like deep orange and midnight blue to the collection.
Materials: Leathers and authentic sheep and rabbit furs. Zippers from Switzerland. She said Scott Antique Markets and Tandy Leather are good sources for cowhides. Also vintage grain sacks.
What’s popular:” Le Soir Fou” sheep’s fur bag ($175 to $275) and “Le Palais Royal” tote ($195 to $375). The functional tote has a classic shape and aesthetic that Paris women of all ages appreciate.
Other favorites: Le “Vieux Moulin” ($150 to $375). The soft, textured bags are made from vintage grain sacks that Luxemburger has spent decades collecting from all over Europe. She also scouts ebay fore rare finds.
Fun request: Create a large tote made of Tibetan sheep fur for Lisa Humphreys, an Atlanta artist and friend.
Big breaks: Bernard Dugaud Atelier de Beauté in Atlanta offered to carry her line in its boutique hair salon.
Also: The Bitter Southerner, an online publication about the South, sold her the pony clutch and the metallic tassel clutch in limited editions through its online general store.
What’s next: A new design with a ‘70s hippie vibe.
Where to buy: atelierluxembourg.com
Get social at: atelier.luxembourg on Instagram.
