‘Tiane Tenui is a bag brand that recognizes the importance of longevity, the nuances of elegance and the power of our feelings around purchasing something so special,  and individual. There are only ever two bags made from the same materials and colour, ensuring an authentic bespoke experience for each client.
 
Christiane Smit – the mind and hand behind ‘Tiane Tenui – believes that each bag should become a part of her clients daily lives, telling a personal story through the marks and impressions left over time. Before taking an order, she sends each client small leather samples so that they may experience the feeling and actual color of the leather, thus becoming a part of the creation process. She also believes in the emotional connection her clients have with their bag — the way you feel when you carry it throughout your day, revealing in it’s handmade nature, an appreciation for the energy put into this special piece. Hard to find elsewhere, she believes in the gentle notion that sometimes the best items involve some searching.

The technique of hand stitching she is using is borrowed from the shoe and saddle making trades. This is really at the core of what defines her craft. As Christiane explained :  “Each stitch is formed by hand with nothing more than an awl, one needle and a length of waxed linen. Very few companies can invest the time necessary to hand stitch their items, but the strength and resilience of hand stitching far exceeds the machine made equivalent.”

Trend Tablet caught up with Christiane for an interview.

When did this new adventure started?

While I was occupied in former occupations I discovered my talent in creating bags and at the same time I was exploring my style. Just before I came to Greece, I created my first hand stitched leather bag. Since I moved to Paros, taking Art History classes, I developed through working with leather my technique in hand stitching. I am working and living between Amsterdam and the island of Paros. As I need very much both, the energy of the city and culture and the nature inspiration of the island… also my company is based in the Netherlands.

What is your motto ?

It was my love for soft though strong colors, structures of fine textiles, simple shapes, quality and unique and rare pieces of art, clothes and objects of nature and my passion for creation that through my former experiences and education gave life to a dream. I create customized bags that correspond to my standards for “Refined Simplicity” and high quality. That highlights femininity and serve the needs of contemporary women. The idea underlying is uniqueness through customizing, every woman is unique!

How to do you create your bags ?

I work by listening to my heart and selecting colors of leathers listening to my feelings. Creating my own trend but classic and durable… choosing colors and qualities that lasts and which are not subjected by trends! Buying qualities from Spain, Italy and Portugal and Holland. Advising the client by choosing the model and color living up to her needs… sometimes corresponding up to 30 mails!

How do you see your future?

Loving what I’m doing and being inspired by living in the Aegean sea, people and many more… enjoying always my passion for hand stitching… craftsmanship and creating…

tianetenui.com