The Bag Label By The Row Alumna To Add To Your Wishlist

An alumna of The Row, Amy Zurek established the accessories label Savette in 2020. We pick her brain about handbags, forever buys and New Yorkers’ winter style …

There are some fashion brands that have an ‘if you know, you know’ mystique to them: Savette is one such proposition. Founded by Amy Zurek in 2020, the accessories label has quickly become a flex for the fashion crowd, with its sleek designs and signature pebble hardware drawing comparisons to the likes of Khaite, The Row and Toteme. (Funnily enough, Zurek has designed bags for both The Row and Khaite; Savette officially makes her a triple threat.) While the aforementioned brands have popularised roomy bowling bags and given classic, ladylike top-handles contemporary verve, there’s something to Savette that stands out from the (quiet luxury) fray. There is a delicate quality to each design that speaks to a certain kind of refinement; of considered choices and even more considered wardrobes (more on that, below), of thoughtful curation and a passion for beautiful things that have been exceptionally made. Each bag is made by hand near Florence, merging traditional Italian leather craftsmanship with modern form. We ask Zurek about her favourite handbags she’s purchased, the accessories trends with staying power and what New Yorkers are really wearing now, below.

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What is the one hero item you’re wearing on repeat now?

The Symmetry shoulder bag is my bag of choice for the cooler months this year. The sleek profile fits under the arm and holds all the essentials for a day out, but transitions easily to night-time, too.

Tell us about the best bag you’ve ever bought?

My first investment bag was a Chanel classic flap bag and to this day I love how the unique strap can be doubled to be worn over the shoulder or long, as a crossbody.

When it comes to bags, do you like a roomy bag, to cart everything around with you, or are you more of a disciplined person who takes a small bag, with just a few things? What items are always in your handbag?

I tend to gravitate towards smaller bags that can hold my essentials for weekdays. My phone is never far — between having a young child and a demanding business, I am always on call. A great lip balm and hand cream are a must in New York City winters and, even with shorter days, I am never without my Saint Laurent sunglasses.

Brown Symmetry suede pouchette clutch, Savette, €1,390, at Brown Thomas.

Are there any bag trends you’re seeing right now that you think have longevity?

The east-west trend (Ed’s note: the east-west trend refers to elongated, baguette-style bags with long, skinny straps), while it is a definite trend, has staying power. There is a timeless sensibility to a structured top handle bag with an elongated shape. The Slim Symmetry Pochette continues to be a bestseller for Savette.

Which classic wardrobe pieces do you always return to for AW dressing and why?

A cosy cashmere turtleneck sweater. The Savette headquarters are near the water in Brooklyn and the wind in the winter can be frigid. (The view from our rooftop in the summer more than makes up for it!) A simple but beautifully-made turtleneck sweater in a neutral colour paired with black trousers and black ankle boots is my winter uniform.

Do you believe in a capsule wardrobe? If so, what does yours include?

I believe in buying the pieces that you love, that feel like you and that will stand the test of time.

Black Symmetry slim shoulder bag, Savette, €1,890, at Brown Thomas.

New York style is admired the world over. What do you think non-New Yorkers miss when trying to emulate the look?

There is an inherent practicality in the way New Yorkers dress. We are out all day long – moving from work, to dinner with friends, to nights out – and we need our clothing and accessories to transition easily between those states. Plus, no New Yorker has unlimited closet space, so every single piece we own has to count!

What is the signature accessory you’re seeing cool New York women wear now? And how are they styling it?

The cord necklace has been a stand-out among the fashion crowd in New York City this fall. Our version is made of beautiful leather draped over a lightweight metal, all based on our signature hardware. They look equally chic with a simple tank, peeking out of a button-down blouse or layered over a turtleneck.

Are there any fashion trends amongst New York women right now that have surprised you?

I truly do not know what to say here. Labubus!?

Neutral Symmetry pochette clutch, Savette, €1,590, at Brown Thomas.

What winter buys are currently on your wish-list?

I am coveting a pair of new Celine lambskin boots that are a classic silhouette rendered in a surprisingly soft and stretchy leather. I collect Astier de Villatte ceramics, and I love their new perfume Mantes-la-Jolie. I also have my eye on a vintage Hermès Chaine D’Ancre Bracelet in gold. I will be wearing a Savette Symmetry Chain Pochette to all of my holiday parties.

Where should we go if we’re visiting New York to feel like a cool local?

While we have many incredible museums in New York, a lesser known but equally incredible option is visiting auction houses such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s, where you can often see masterpieces that are rarely on view to the public.

What is the coolest way to dress for a winter occasion? What’s your dream dress-up outfit?

A little black dress cannot be beaten for a festive occasion in the winter. It’s the perfect backdrop for a gorgeous bag. Savette introduced satin handbags for the first time recently, and I love the soft lustre of the fabric against a more textural one.

Finish the sentence: A great handbag is … a bag that ages beautifully, turning it into an heirloom you look forward to passing down one day.