I met Rachel Borghard during Fashion Week and was immediately struck by her energy and poise. She has a way of putting you at ease, as if we had known each other for years, while radiating the focus of someone deeply committed to her craft. Rachel is the founder of Dooz, a luxury handbag brand that redefines the intersection of art, design, and sustainability. Her sculptural silhouettes take cues from architecture, fine art, and industrial design, creating bags that feel as considered and elevated as Bottega Veneta, perfect for someone who values exceptional quality without the logos. I am especially impressed that all of her production is done in New York City using Italian calfskin leather, suede, and custom hardware. Rachel has clearly thought about every detail, from the size of the bags to who is carrying them, where they are going, and even the exact length of the straps. Each piece is timeless yet bold, the kind of bag that becomes an essential part of your life.
If you’re Out East, you can find Dooz at Hank Clothing, 2454 Main Street, Bridgehampton. Owned by Ryland Hilbert, this jewel-box boutique curates some of the coolest brands. I recently sat down with Dooz founder Rachel Borghard to talk about her vision and the story behind her extraordinary handbags.
What first made you realize handbags were your focus?
My background in fine arts, fashion, and furniture design reflects a lifelong fascination with craft and making. I’ve always been drawn to three-dimensional work, and handbags felt like the perfect medium of expression. I realized I could create pieces that are not only beautiful but also part of someone’s everyday life. For me, accessories became the perfect intersection of creativity and practicality.
Why is producing entirely in New York City important to you?
Producing in NYC ensures a high standard of craftsmanship and allows me to work closely with skilled local artisans. New York City is also central to Dooz’s identity, the energy, architecture, and rhythm of the city inspire my designs, so keeping production here feels like a natural extension of the brand.
If your brand had a mood board, what three words would be on it?
Architectural, colorful, transformative.
What’s the signature detail that makes a bag yours?
Every Dooz bag has a sculptural, transformative quality. Whether it’s a strap that adjusts to multiple lengths or a removable liner, the bag is designed to evolve with how it’s carried and used. Subtle branding, like our signature “D” hardware or the embossed “D” on each bag, acts as a finishing touch rather than a loud logo. Shapes are also key to our identity: the half-moon silhouette of the Celeste and the barbell motif of the Gigi have become signature forms, giving the bags their distinctive architectural character.
In a world of fast fashion, how do you create pieces meant to be kept?
Fashion feels so fast-paced right now, but I believe in slowing down and producing intentionally, not chasing every microtrend. I keep the line small and focused, only making what I truly believe in. I focus on timeless silhouettes and versatility, so the bags can grow with the wearer and be cherished for years.
What sets your bags apart from others on the market?
I think Dooz bags strike a nice balance between art and function. The shapes are sculptural and architectural, but still practical for everyday use, and I love working with color in ways that feel bold yet timeless. It’s an accessible luxury that feels a little under the radar, but instantly recognizable to anyone who knows good design.
What has been the biggest challenge of launching your brand?
I don’t have a background in sales or marketing, and I’m naturally more of an introvert, so putting myself out there through pop-ups and brand activations was definitely a challenge at first. Over time, though, I’ve really gotten comfortable with in-person activations and have even come to love them! I’ve learned to trust my instincts, and things usually work out.
What has been the most rewarding moment so far?
The most rewarding moments are seeing customers connect with the bags in a personal way. When someone tells me a piece has become part of their daily routine or fits seamlessly into their life, it’s a reminder that all the hard work really pays off. I also get compliments almost daily when I’m out and about, which is such a fun validation.
Where do you see your brand in five years?
In five years, I’d love for Dooz to be known as a brand that bridges art, design, and everyday life. I see the line expanding thoughtfully, with new designs and other accessories, while keeping our evergreen styles as the foundation. I hope the brand will be worn by tastemakers, artists, gallerists, and others in the creative world, while remaining niche. At the same time, I want to grow organically through pop-ups, retail partnerships, and maybe even a small seasonal storefront Out East in the Hamptons!