Grace Han reopens highly anticipated London flagship store

Grace Han, the renowned British luxury leather bag and accessories designer who was born in Taiwan, is making a grand return to London as her eponymous label reopens its UK flagship store in Knightsbridge. Known for her exceptional craftsmanship and the fusion of Eastern and Western design influences, Grace’s brand has earned a reputation for timeless style, uncompromising quality, and thoughtful design. Her creations have garnered a dedicated global following, including notable figures such as Akie Abe, the former First Lady of Japan; Carrie Johnson; and Catherine, Princess of Wales.

The year 2023 marks a significant milestone for Grace Han as her flagship store opens its doors once again for the first time since Covid-19 restrictions were lifted.

This exclusive and contemporary space radiates warmth and hospitality, and London holds a special place in Grace’s heart, having studied painting in the city and maintained a lifelong connection to it. Her parents’ love story also began in London, making it a place filled with romantic nostalgia and boundless creative inspiration for the designer.

The decision to reopen the flagship store in October 2023 was prompted by the enthusiastic demand from Grace’s loyal clientele and the resurgence of the personal luxury goods market, now valued at €353bn. After a prolonged period of online shopping during lockdowns, customers were eager for the luxury of in-store experiences, knowledgeable customer service, and the opportunity to interact with products in person.

With London’s luxury market thriving and boasting the highest concentration of high-net-worth individuals (HNWI) worldwide, Grace was excited to tap into the brand’s full high street potential now that Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted in the UK.

Reflecting on the brand’s journey, Grace shared her perspective, stating: “Just as we had established this brand, we were hit by the pandemic, and we were forced to close our store. At that time, I felt truly disappointed and heartbroken. I even considered whether I should stop running this brand.

“Fortunately, the Princess of Wales appeared in public carrying one of my bags, and photographers captured that moment. I distinctly remember spending over an hour in the restroom, shedding tears of relief,” she said. “It made me understand that when one door closes, the heavens open new ones for you. So, today, I am genuinely thrilled that our flagship store is reopening.”

This royal endorsement has further solidified the international recognition and prestige of the Grace Han label.

In 2020, Princess Catherine was pictured at several royal engagements carrying her own Grace Han ‘Love Letter’ bag, including during a visit to frontline workers during the pandemic. The Princess’s choice of this bag resonates with the brand’s ethos of spreading love and hope, making it a meaningful accessory for various occasions.

Grace Han’s journey into the world of luxury leather craft was influenced by the designer’s background in Taipei. There, her entrepreneurial father imparted vital business skills, while her mother’s teachings in art and calligraphy nurtured her appreciation for tradition, fine arts, and craftsmanship –– all of which serve as the foundation of her collection’s inspiration.

Grace views each of her creations as a work of art, with some pieces taking several years to develop. With a passion for leather craft and the unwavering vision for her brand, Grace embarked on the journey of creating Grace Han with two years of apprenticeship in a handbag factory where she learned the intricate skills of pattern making, leather cutting, sewing, trimming and glueing.

Coinciding with the reopening of the flagship store, Grace was one of the contemporary artists invited to exhibit at the prestigious exhibition Asian Art in London at 4 Cromwell Place in London that opened on the 26 October 2023. The theme, ‘Metamorphosis’, featured selected Asian artists who have continuously evolved their artistic expression while staying connected to their roots.

Grace seized this opportunity to fulfil her late mother Anita Wong’s dream of exhibiting her artwork in London, honouring her creative influence on Grace’s brand. In an impressive fusion of art and fashion, Grace displayed her latest collection alongside her late mother’s tranquil yet atmospheric paintings, which had inspired her new creations.

Following the successful opening of the Asian Art in London exhibition, Grace and her team are excited to welcome both loyal and new customers to the brand’s flagship store in London’s thriving Knightsbridge. This reopening offers a chance to experience and enjoy Grace Han’s exceptional craftsmanship and luxurious designs in person once again.

Visit GraceHan.Shop or drop by the Grace Han Flagship Store at 13 Beauchamp Place, London, SW3 1NQ for an exclusive shopping experience.

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