An Inside Look At Frank Clegg’s Haute Designs And Why They’re A Favorite Of President Obama

Photo Credit: Frank Clegg

With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about what to gift that special someone on your list. Whether it’s a classic leather handbag for her or a messenger bag for him, Frank Clegg offers luxe leather gifts for that hard-to-buy-for person on your list this holiday season. What you may not realize is the entire line of sophisticated products is made and designed in their Fall River, Massachusetts workshop.

Photo Credit: Frank Clegg

We love the American Alligator Bifold Wallet, a gorgeous handcrafted classic, which can be made to order based on the client’s preference with scale pattern. The beautiful American Alligator exterior combines function and style in one gorgeous wallet for him. What we think makes the wallet so special is that each distinctive design is unique to the animal, so no two are exactly alike.

Photo Credit: Frank Clegg

We caught up recently with Ian Clegg, sales manager (and Frank’s son), who gave us an inside look at some of the season’s hautest designs.

Tell me about the history of Frank Clegg and how the brand came to be.

It all started with a set of leather tools my mom gave to my dad for Christmas 40+ years ago. He quickly fell in love with the craft and developed a passion for leather — and Frank Clegg was born. We started the company in 1970 making quality leather goods in Fall River, Massachusetts.

What’s new and haute this season?

We’ve interpreted some of our favorite silhouettes such as the classic backpack, portfolio and signature duffel in new materials – luxurious suede and American alligator.

As a designer, where does your inspiration come from?

My dad loves making things. When he’s not making bags, he makes guitars or repairs old fountain pens.  My brother and I draw inspiration from the world around us — we love to travel. We’re inspired by different cultures around the world.

What do you think makes an exceptional design?

Form and function. Pieces that are simple and functional, with all of the focus on the beauty of materials and quality of the components.

Who is your target clientele?

Discerning people interested in owning a quality leather product, proudly made in America.

What are some of your most popular pieces?

The double gusset zip-top has quickly become a staple in our collection due to President Obama using this bag throughout his time in office. Other models include our English Briefcase, Signature Duffle, Working Totes, and small accessories.

How would you describe your design style?

Timeless, yet instantly identifiable as an American classic.

What is it about the Frank Clegg brand that makes it so unique?

Every piece is made to our exacting standards in our Fall River, Massachusetts factory by a team of highly skilled artisans who share a pride of creating handmade products of unparalleled quality. We are also incredibly proud that we make all of our products in our very own factory in Fall River and always have since the company’s inception in 1970.  A product doesn’t leave the floor without one of us handling it.