There’s nothing in fashion that dazzles quite like a Judith Leiber creation. With unmatched detail and imagination, her designs have become cultural touchstones, admired on runways, red carpets and museum pedestals alike. Read on to learn more about these unforgettable pieces.
Who Is Judith Leiber?
The story of Judith Leiber is as remarkable as her creations. Born in Budapest, Hungary, Judith Leiber was the first woman accepted into the handbag-makers’ guild in her home country. After surviving World War II, she met and married American soldier Gerson “Gus” Leiber. The couple moved to the United States, where she founded her namesake brand in 1963.
The brand’s defining moment came from a happy accident. A metal frame for a bag arrived discolored, and instead of discarding it, Leiber decided to cover the imperfections with hand-applied Austrian crystals. This innovative solution birthed the signature style that would make Judith Leiber a household name in luxury.
Judith Leiber is most famous for her minaudières—small, decorative hard-shell clutches. What sets these apart is their imaginative form. Leiber transformed the simple clutch into objects of fantasy. Think animals, cupcakes, lipsticks and even martini glasses—all encrusted in thousands of sparkling crystals.
Each crystal is meticulously handset, a process that can take weeks to complete. It’s this dedication to detail and quality that elevates Judith Leiber’s creations from accessories to true works of art, so much so that they’re displayed in museums like the Smithsonian and the Met.
From First Ladies to Hollywood royalty, these luxury clutches have adorned the arms of some of the world’s most influential women. The brand has been featured in films like Sex and the City, and its most collectible pieces can sell for tens of thousands of dollars at luxury retailers and auctions.
Here are a few of the most sought-after lines from the brand:
- Judith Leiber minaudières: These hard-shell clutches come in every shape imaginable, from champagne bottles to vintage cars.
- Judith Leiber pill boxes: Petite and playful, these jeweled cases transform a simple necessity into a statement piece.
- Judith Leiber purses: Designed with a modern classic in mind, featuring metallic leathers, satin and subtle crystal accents.
Find your own Judith Leiber original online at Borsheims.com today.
