CO-FOUNDERS OF KEEVIL
JESSICA & RODD KEEVIL

KEEVIL is an authentic leather goods label, creating everyday bags from luxurious materials for women who have moved beyond fast fashion and trends, to embrace thoughtful design and mindful consumption.

KEEVIL offers unique and well-considered pieces that capture the essence of creativity and inspire authentic self-expression. Their DNA rests in equestrian inspired detail, buttery soft leather and a relaxed and slightly undone aesthetic.

Based in Sydney, and proud to be Australian made, KEEVIL heralds a slower and more considered approach to manufacturing with a strong commitment to sustainable design.

We spoke to Jessica Keevil about KEEVIL and their commitment to sustainably manufactured, quality leather goods.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR DESIGNS?

Since studying handbag design and pattern making in Milan, it has been my goal to combine traditional Italian bag making techniques with a relaxed design sensibility. My design principle is based around showcasing the textural beauty of our buttery soft leather and combining it with a subtle equestrian influence.

I develop all of the patterns in my studio then work with a master bag maker to handcraft the bags locally, often hand stitching the final details myself to give the bags a unique and handcrafted feel. In a world dominated by fast fashion, I want to offer something that feels honest. I design bags I want to wear and be very proud of.

HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN FOR THE LABEL KEEVIL?

I’ve always been interested in the creative process, inspired by my mum who designed and made beautiful wedding dresses. I think I was eventually drawn to work with leather having grown up as a competitive horse rider and surrounded by a beautiful leather tack. 

When we established the brand, I was suffering a massive fast fashion hangover. I wanted a brand that celebrated craftsmanship and the creative process, as opposed to disposable fashion and trends. I think people are becoming more conscious in the way they consume, and it has been my goal to help reconnect women with the pleasure of buying well-made, beautifully designed pieces that are made to last. 

WHAT CREATIVE WORK HAS YOU EXCITED RIGHT NOW?

I’m really excited about using new materials and I’m currently experimenting for our next collection (hint: think a less than subtle equestrian influence). It’s amazing to see our core collection slowly develop and evolve over time by introducing new materials and techniques, but remaining true to the brand’s DNA.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE TO DO TO RELAX?

I feel most relaxed when I’m being creative! Building a brand requires so much time spent on the business side of things. Actually getting to create, whether it be new designs or experimenting with new materials and techniques - that’s what I love the most! But when I’m not in the studio you’ll find me in the ocean, shopping for pre-loved treasures or curled up with a good book.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR EMERGING DESIGNERS?

Don’t wait until you’re ready, you never will be. Throw yourself in and don’t be afraid to make mistakes, the faster you make them the faster and more you will learn. But do be really honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses from the beginning.

There is so much more to being a designer than just designing! Decide where you should spend your time and what you could outsource. And find a good mentor who can help you along the way.