Using the finest in Argentine leather and exotic skins, our exquisite collections are hand-crafted at our Atelier in fashionable Buenos Aires.

During the early 1930’s European and American appetites for exotic skin handbags had begun to emerge. Along with France and Italy, Argentina held an enviable position in the designing and crafting of exotic skin handbags and shoes; a tradition that continued until the allure for the exotics started to slow down following the war.

In 1937, Parisian Couture house “Callot Soeurs”, which also had shops in Nice, Biarritz, London and Buenos Aires, had been acquired by the House of Calvet. The label was renowned for making exquisite gowns, but a certain number of alligator, lizard, and antelope suede bags, were made to order in Argentina for the label’s select clientele. In keeping with the integrity of the original “Callot” label, which was above all, a pre-eminent Couture house, the handbags did not bear the label’s signature. Instead, they were discreetly embossed “Made in Argentina” or "Industria Argentina".

The handbags were easily recognisable for their vibrant shades of cognac, deep burgundy, and garnet, which accentuated the beauty and detail of the skin. Another detail was the superb hardware, which was crafted in an artisanal manner and especially made for each handbag. Silver, Alpaca and Bakelite were the preferred materials, as they gave the bags a unique look that turned them into true works of art. The House of Calvet retired the Callot label in 1948.

Today, Marcela Calvet brings the allure of the Calvet name back to the forefront of fashion with her exquisite handbag collections, honouring the same traditional methods and superlative craftsmanship of yesteryear.