Strathberry x Cinq a Sept: Behind the Collaboration
Our collection with Cinq à Sept marries our timeless craftsmanship with Cinq a Sept's day-to-night ethos, to create a range of handbags defined by untamed elegance.
We caught up with Cinq a Sept Founder, Jane Siskin, and Strathberry Co-Founder Leeanne Hundleby, for an exclusive conversation on the inspiration and craftsmanship behind our newest collaboration Strathberry x Cinq à Sept, and to dive deeper into what is inspiring them both right now….
Leeanne – How did the collaboration come about, and what sparked the design ideas?
We were really excited about the idea of collaborating with Cinq à Sept because their design style is so sophisticated yet playful; it felt like they could bring a completely new and unique feel to our bags. From there, the ideas really started to flow. We reflected on what makes each of our brands distinct and found a way to weave those elements into a partnership that feels authentic to both. It was about finding the balance between our iconic structures and their spirited, Cinq à Sept aesthetic, and that’s what sparked the techniques and details you see in the collection.
Jane - What inspired you to start Cinq à Sept?
After many years in the industry, I noticed a shift: fashion brands were adopting a more youthful approach to design, and there was a clear gap between the contemporary and designer markets. We set out to create a feminine brand that felt both sexy and cool within the contemporary space. While reading French Vogue, I came across the phrase Cinq à Sept, which I interpreted as the time of day when the light changes, when anything can happen, also known as happy hour. That energy became our inspiration, and from it, Cinq à Sept was born.
Leeanne – There are some interesting new bag techniques for Strathberry being used across this collaboration – can you tell us a bit more about these new techniques and how you landed on them?
Cinq à Sept is known for their day-to-night ethos, and we wanted to make sure the techniques we explored really represented that fun, adaptable energy. For the fringing, it felt like such a natural choice after taking inspiration from their prairie-inspired ready-to-wear collection for fall. It’s the first time we’ve incorporated a suede fringe on our bags, and it ties beautifully into that aesthetic. With our 3D metallic print, we were excited about the idea of taking our iconic silhouettes and reimagining them with a new technique. The combination of polished leather and the subtle metallic 3D print create an elevated look that works just as well during the day, as it does at night. Then, with the embroidery, we took inspiration from the gorgeous prints in their ready-to-wear collection to create an elevated technique that adds an extra layer of craftsmanship that we both value.
Jane - What do you think are the shared values between Strathberry and Cinq à Sept and why were you excited about doing this collaboration?
What I’ve always admired about Strathberry is their incredible quality and craftsmanship. From the moment we began talking, I knew their team would treat our design inspiration with care and create something that truly felt at home within our Fall 2025 collection. Beyond that, this collaboration was exciting because it allowed us to bring together two distinct cultures and creative perspectives. It’s a chance to reach new people around the world and invite them to experience the spirit of both Cinq à Sept and Strathberry in one beautiful piece.
Leeanne – What is your favourite bag in the collection and how would you style in?
My favourite bag in the collection is the Embroidered Frame Clutch. It’s such a timeless, elegant piece, and it is perfect for the winter party season. I love how it combines rich velvet, subtle sparkles, and a statement architectural handle. I’d style it with a sleek black velvet midi dress, delicate drop earrings, and a pair of classic pointed heels, letting the clutch take centre stage.
Jane - Can you tell us more about your prairie/western-inspired collection and how the design cues of our collaboration bags fit with that wider aesthetic?
For Fall 2025, we were inspired by the rugged romance of the American prairie, that mix of wide-open freedom, grit and beauty. We wanted the bags to echo that feeling, which is why we leaned into rich textures like suede and velvet, embroidery with a handcrafted touch, and of course Strathberry’s iconic Music Bar hardware. Together, it creates this perfect tension between grit and glamour, the same balance that runs through the clothing.
Leeanne – If you could describe the collection in three words, what would they be?
Romantic, Timeless and Elevated.
Jane - What was your approach to adding your signature Cinq à Sept touch to Strathberry’s iconic bag silhouettes?
Our approach is always about striking that balance, feminine but cool, classic but with a little twist. That’s exactly how we thought about this collaboration. Strathberry’s silhouettes are already so iconic, so our goal was to add subtle touches that feel very Cinq à Sept, fringing, printed leather, embroidery and that bit of whimsy that makes each bag feel one-of-a-kind.
Leeanne – Where do you go to feel inspired?
I find inspiration in lots of small details every day, but escaping to our holiday home in the north of Scotland is especially inspiring and grounding; it’s a peaceful haven for me and my family and always gives me a fresh perspective. The quiet, natural surroundings allow me to slow down, reflect, and return to my work with renewed creativity and focus.
Jane - Where do you go to feel inspired?
For me, inspiration is about staying connected to the world and to the people around me. I find it in travel; in the way a city moves or a landscape shift with the light. I find it food, entertainment and even books. I find it in my family, who remind me daily of what truly matters. And most of all, I find it in our customer, seeing her energy, her confidence, and the way she brings our designs to life is the greatest inspiration of all.
Jane - Which is your favourite piece in the collection and why?
I keep coming back to the Multrees Omni bag as my favorite. On one hand, it’s so timeless and versatile, the kind of piece you can carry every day, but it’s also full of character. The suede makes it feel luxe yet grounded, and the fringe has this great sense of energy and play that reminds me of the spirit of the prairie. It’s practical, beautiful and has that little twist of personality that makes it very Cinq à Sept.
Leeanne – What are your everyday bag essentials?
As a working mum of four, my bag has to be as functional as it is beautiful. I always carry my phone and keys and I admit to being quite old fashioned in that I still love keeping a paper diary as I can instantly see what future commitments I have and exactly where I need to be. In addition to the essentials, I always carry a great pair of sunglasses, a beautiful smelling hand cream, and a lipstick. I find even with a little lipstick I feel more confident and ready to take on anything. My Strathberry bag is designed to hold all of this with ease, so I never have to choose between practicality and style.
Click here to explore the collection.
