Women at Work: Esha Soni
Women at Work: Esha Soni
Introducing our new series. Every week in September, we're highlighting women in fashion doing cool things. First up, handbag designer Esha Soni.
Esha Soni’s eponymous collection is barely two years old, but chances are you own a bag in which she’s had a hand in creating. The Mumbai-born designer’s career includes 10 years at Michael Kors along with stints at Ralph Lauren, Mansur Gavriel, Proenza Schouler and Ghurka.
Since 2022, she has been designing her own handbags, jewelry and ceramics with a distinctive visual language: sculptural, organic, minimal. “Having worked in the industry for 20 years, I knew exactly what I wanted to build and create,” she explains. For her, that means a brand which encourages mindful consumption with timeless designs produced at the absolute highest quality.
“Creating something that stands the test of time is the most sustainable form of design,” she says. “[My collection is] about slowing down and really cherishing what you bring into your life.”
Esha remains self-funded by consulting for other brands, and she treasures this independence, which allows her to make bold decisions for a fledgling business. One of which is donating 5% of gross handbag sales to CITTA, a nonprofit that builds schools for girls in India and Nepal, a number she says will grow as her business does.
“I love having the freedom to do things that feel instinctively right to me,” she says, “without having to sit in a meeting and explain it to someone.”
My most memorable interview outfit… was for my first interview at Proenza Schouler. An ivory sculpted knit midi skirt with forest green Celine boots. I felt comfortable and confident.
My go-to look for an important meeting… a structured or oversized blazer or button-down shirt paired with a cool midi skirt and pointy slingbacks or knee-high boots. I always add either a chunky bracelet or my own Rock Duo stud earrings. I love a flash of metal.
The one fashion item that makes me feel most powerful… a statement shoe. The right one completely transforms a look.
The most rewarding thing about being an entrepreneur… the freedom to follow my instinct/gut and not have to explain why.
And the most challenging… doing every single aspect of the business on my own. As an early-stage, self-funded entrepreneur, I am a one-woman team, which is my biggest strength and challenge at the same time.
The best career advice I ever received… never burn any bridges. It turns out to be so true as our industry is so small. I have worked repeatedly with many of the same individuals
The Orb handbag in slate “A new color of our iconic bag dropping soon. The slate grey with the silver hardware is so modern and cool. I cannot wait to wear it with my neutral cashmeres, blazers and dresses. Such a chic statement!”
Onna House “A modernist 1960s home, filled with art, furniture and sculptures all by women artists and designers. I am hoping to visit this September.”
Brigitte Shirt “I love the black and ivory together, and envision it with wide black pants, a pleated leather skirt or denim.”
Mavis Trench Coat “I love the volume and ease of this trench. It will instantly make a statement and elevate any look for fall.”
Pierced Slingback “The sculptural metal element paired with the low heel is perfection. It pairs so well with an Esha Soni handbag.”
Arc 2.0 Tote (coming soon) “This is a smaller version of our iconic Arc tote, with a crossbody strap. The size is perfect for your wallet, sunglasses and few other items. It’s lightweight, effortless and cool.”
Perfume Oils “I was recently introduced to the women behind Kindred Black, and I fell in love with their beautiful handblown glass bottles and scented oils – all made in the USA.”
Steve Jobs: A Biography “As a founder and entrepreneur I have been meaning to finish this. It’s on my to-do list for fall.”
Our Women at Work issue builds on a longtime brand franchise that now lives on via Substack. Every September and March, we’ll focus on a new industry. The second fashion entrepreneur story runs next weekend. In the meantime, let us know if you have suggestions for inspiring and entrepreneurial women to consider.