Inside VBH on Madison Avenue

I love VBH. I own two of the brand’s signature envelope clutches and have come to know VBH founder and designer Bruce Hoeksema over the past few years. We first connected in Paris – and then at a fabulous dinner party held at Valentino’s villa outside in France. Bruce worked with Valentino for over twenty years, and then established his own Italian luxury label in 2001. I’ve often walked by the VBH flagship on Madison Avenue in New York, but it was only recently that I stepped inside for a better look around. And I am so glad I did – wow. I was totally blown over…

The exquisite VBH flagship from above

Aaron Young art at the VBH store

A former bank, the extraordinary space was transformed by architect Peter Marino – and is bigger than most people’s New York apartments. The decór, the objets d’art – just beyond. Every detail is so carefully considered, yet so luxurious and comfortable – like you just want to sit, relax and enjoy the space all day.

Bruce’s collections are spread throughout the store. Much like the store itself, these bags are exquisite pieces of work. They’re individually hand-crafted in Florence, each with a name and limited edition number engraved on an interior plaque. What I love about VBH is its chic, understated luxury. After working for Valentino for many years, Bruce felt that there was a void in the accessories market for classic, elegant handbags. The logo era is so hackneyed and Bruce was spot on – his VBH bags are modern classics.

VBH clutches on a stingray table designed by Bruce

Chic black clutches for day or night

VBH evening clutch with lace overlay

Holding a gorgeous green alligator sac bag from the 2010 line

The company began with evening clutches, evolving over time. Now Bruce is working on day bags – the sac design is his answer to the evening’s envelope clutch.

VBH signature sac bags

Gorgeous black alligator day bag

The pièce de résistance is downstairs – the vault – where the VBH jewelry is showcased. Not only does Bruce make these incredible bags, but also one-of-a-kind jewels. I literally drooled over every piece – I have never seen anything like it. The old-fashioned jewelry look is so over – I like something bold and unique. There are a pair of earrings I really covet…

The jewelry vault downstairs

VBH jewelry

VBH earrings

VBH brooch

VBH earrings – my favorite

Vernon Bruce Hoeksema (whose initials form the company) is a man of taste and style, and it’s reflected in everything he does. This store – the bags, the custom-designed furniture, the jewels – all a feast for the eyes.