Mel Boteri is a business dedicated to custom fashion for women. We provide the basic silhouette, but you become the true designer as you select the style, components, and color of each bag. Our first collection of handbags launched in September 2009, and includes clutches, small, mid-size and large handbags. For a truly personalized experience we meet with clients by appointment only, and also offer private shows which can be scheduled to take place in our showroom or at your choice of location. Our target client is a fashion-forward, worldly woman who knows what she wants and who loves to express her personal style. In order to allow her to create a truly one-of-a-kind handbag, each silhouette has several style choices including options for different accessories, pockets, and handles. Once the client selects the perfect style, she can then choose from multiple materials such as calf-skin, patent, and suede leathers, with each available in various colors. All bags are hand-made with personalized care and love in Portugal, and include our signature “Mel Boteri” turquoise suede lining.

Recognizing the advantage of having a strong business background in the fashion industry, I entered the highly competitive world of style and design by focusing my formal training in business while developing my design skills independently. For as long as I can remember, I have always had a passion for fashion and I am specifically drawn to the inherent power of fashion which allows you to influence emotion by expressing your personal style. During a short stint living in New York City, I came to realize that most retailers have confused their huge inventory of product choices with giving us what we want when in fact these “choices” are dictated by retail buyers and pushy salespeople. Mel Boteri was therefore originated on the premise to revitalize the inherent influence of fashion by empowering each client to create products and services precisely as they want them.

Much of my inspiration to design comes from the beautiful and powerful women in my life. Each handbag style is therefore named after a special friend, family member, mentor, or acquaintance that in one way or another has left a lasting impression on me. Working with manufacturers overseas pretty much guarantees a frantic moment every once in a while. My frustrations tend to be those shared by most designers… late shipments, consistency and quality issues. With each new “nightmare” I assess the situation to determine what needs to change so that the problem does not reoccur, and in the end I feel these moments help to make my business stronger.

My greatest achievement thus far has been my partnership up with the Atlanta Chapter of Bright Pink, an organization dedicated to providing education and support to young women who are at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Mel Boteri will donate 10 percent of the proceeds from the sale of the specially designed Lauren Bright Pink clutch to the organization. I love that I can support such a great organization and give back to my community while doing what I am truly passionate about.