Behind the Circle: How We Handcraft Our Leather Crossbody Bag
It struck us recently that we haven’t shared a behind-the-scenes look in a while. The last time we did, it was to tell the story of how one of our satchels came to life – step by step, from sketch to final stitch. This felt like the perfect moment to open that door again, this time with something round and entirely new.
Our latest release, the leather circle crossbody bag Penelope, may seem like just a stylish addition, but it tells a deeper story. The idea appeared out of nowhere and wouldn’t let go until it became real. And now that it’s here, we’re still amazed at how naturally it completes the collection.
In this short read, we’ll take you through the thought process behind the shape, the choices that shaped its function, and the leather bag craftsmanship that brought it to life.
1. How a Sweet Moment Turned into a Bag
It all began with a quiet coffee break – the kind that clears the mind just enough for a new idea to appear. The espresso was warm and grounding, the passion fruit macaron soft and glossy, bursting with vibrant flavor. In that moment, the harmony of texture, color, and shape sparked an idea we couldn’t ignore: we needed to craft a round leather crossbody bag for women that would feel just as vibrant, tactile, and unforgettable.
Like macarons, this design called for a full collection – not just a single flavor, but a palette of moods: glossy black, deep berry, evergreen, blueberry blue, soft caramel, and warm cognac.
As we explored the concept, the shape began to feel even more familiar. The circle seemed to hold the kind of simple, personal joys we often overlook. Within our team, each person saw something different in it: vinyl record, cherry candy, matcha mochi, navy wool beret, chocolate cake, and sunflower.
Yes, we love food. More than anything, we love how one shape can carry so many meanings.
What about you? When you think of a circle, what comes to mind? Is it something you’ve loved, something useful, or simply something that makes you smile?
Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on Instagram with your Penelope look. We’d love to see what you see in it.
2. From an Idea to a Thoughtful Shape
What began as a playful idea soon turned into a thoughtful exploration of shape and practicality. For a long time, rectangular and square bags have defined everyday function. They are structured, boxy, and often feel rigid. In contrast, the circle offered something different. It felt softer, more natural in movement, and more comfortable to wear.
It moves with the body instead of against it, sits closer without jutting out, and complements curves rather than fighting them. It offers less bulk, fewer edges, and more natural flow.
Circles evoke balance, continuity, and a natural ease unbroken by sharp edges. In fashion, they’ve always held their place. From vintage hatboxes to modern crossbodies worn by icons of effortless style, the minimalist leather crossbody bag speaks to those who value simplicity in complementing outfits for any weather.
Compact on the outside and roomy within, Penelope comes in two sizes designed to hold your daily essentials. It comfortably fits a leather wallet, key case, field notes with a leather cover, smartphone, sunglasses case, and other everyday carry items – all without unnecessary bulk. It’s the kind of everyday leather bag for women that works with your lifestyle.
3. From Thought to Craft
With the concept finalized, the next step took shape on paper through a technical sketch that defined proportions and structure.
This was the beginning of our leather bag making process, and every decision was rooted in care and expertise. We chose Crazy Horse leather bag material for its durability, soft texture, and the way it develops character over time. To keep the leather looking its best, we recommend avoiding water. For full care guidance, visit our blog on how to care for leather bags.
Minimalist hardware followed: smooth-running zippers, strong D-rings, and clips that feel solid in hand. Inside, a cotton lining adds structure while keeping things breathable and lightweight.
The crafting process included precise cutting and edge finishing. Every seam was reinforced at key stress points, and the hardware was installed using hand tools and a press for lasting strength and alignment.
This is the essence of the handmade bag production process and the attention to detail we value at every step.
Then came testing. Our team wore the prototypes for weeks to identify weak points, improve comfort, and refine the details until everything felt just right.
4. The Details That Matter
We fine-tuned the crossbody strap to suit different body types, making it long enough to stay comfortable and short enough to prevent it from swinging out of place.
The inner pocket, initially designed as open, felt too unstructured. We added a discreet magnetic snap to keep items secure while still allowing quick, one-handed access. We also introduced an exterior pocket on the back, perfect for quickly reaching a phone, keys, or transit card without opening the bag.
The top handle wasn’t in the original plan, but during testing, we found ourselves instinctively reaching for the bag – to pick it up, shift it, or carry it just a few steps. That instinct shaped the final detail. The handle adds ease in motion, offering an alternative way to carry Penelope when crossbody isn’t needed.
5. Packaging That Lets the Bag Speak First
Imagine placing a round pizza in a square box. It may appear simple on the outside, but it is shaped just right inside. This is how we approach packaging: clean, protective, and free of distractions so that all attention stays on what truly matters.
The box is tailored to fit the bag securely, preserving its shape while offering a thoughtful, minimal presentation. The only addition inside is our branded card with a QR code, which offers quick access to care tips, gift ideas, and other helpful pages from the Hidemont world.
Unboxing is a sensory moment filled with the soft, natural scent of leather, the richness of color, and a smooth texture that promises to last. We explored these subtle, lasting impressions in our blog about the shades of feeling a new Hidemont bag can evoke.
Whether you’re ordering it for yourself or sending it as a gift, Penelope arrives ready to wear and beautifully presentable, with no extra steps needed. It makes for one of those perfect crossbody bag gift ideas for women or simply a unique leather gift for her.
To Sum Up
We hope you’ve enjoyed this short walk behind the scenes and now feel closer to the values that guide every Hidemont creation.
If Penelope is already part of your wardrobe, share your outfit ideas with us on Instagram, and take a look behind the scenes of leather production on TikTok to see how leather bags are made.
For anyone exploring things to consider when buying a crossbody bag, or simply wanting to discover more about women’s handmade leather bags, Penelope offers the perfect combination of function, form, and feeling.
