Local Designer Series: Handmade Leather Good Line Launched in Detroit

Husband and wife duo Shane and Melissa Douglas started with a passion for handmade leather goods, which blossomed into Douglas & Co. Detroit. Their goal: to create leather products as beautiful as the people who surrounded them in the city of Detroit. Each item created by Douglas & Co. Detroit is a labor of love deeply rooted in the city as 100% of their manufacturing process takes place locally. We spoke with Shane and got the scoop on their luxe new line that launched this past Saturday.

DG3: Are all of your products sewn in-house and what has been the benefit of manufacturing your own products?

Shane Douglas: All products are sewn in our studio located in the city of Detroit by the two of us. Since we control the facets of production it enables us to design, modify and adjust our approach on the spot as needed all while maintaining consistent quality.

DG3: Is it true you work in limited editions, and if so, how do you think it will benefit the consumer?

SD: We believe in creating with intent and capturing the unique qualities that all individuals have. By having limited editions/runs we can offer a product to consumers that is as unique as they are.

DG3: Where do you find inspiration for your products?

SD: The inspiration for our products comes from the relationships we have with people of the city, and they come from practicality.

DG3: What has been your toughest hurdle to cross when it comes to launching a new line, and how did you overcome it?

SD: The most difficult hurdle to cross has been time. We have started to overcome that by applying efficiencies to our process and streamlining how we produce.

DG3: If you could give any advice to someone starting their own line, what would you tell them?

SD: Make sure it is because you love it, and that you know how you plan to go to market. Having a good idea of who your customer is and understanding price points, margins and the financial side of business helps as well.

DG3: What fashion trend do you despise and why?

SD: Ugg Boots. You know which ones we are talking about… and that's why.

DG3: This will be interesting since we have only interviewed female designers so far, but if you could have any movie or television character’s wardrobe, whose would it be?

SD: The brothers from Boondock Saints or Brad Pitt’s in Snatch or Fight Club.

DG3: How do you take your coffee?

SD: Black, French Press.

DG3: Louis Vuitton or Mulberry?

SD: Louis Vuitton for design but not brand splash all over product. Mulberry for diversification in product aesthetics.

DG3: Hobo bag or clutch?

SD: Hobo bag