Business & Tech

Accessories Designer Brings New Studio to Crown Heights

Barbara Campbell moved from Park Slope to Crown Heights to open a reservation-only, multi-functional design studio.

For accessories designer and artist Barbara Campbell, Crown Heights isn’t only a new home – it’s also the location of her new design studio.

Originally from uptown Manhattan, Campbell – whose self-designed jewelry and handbags can be purchased at Otto (354 Seventh Ave.), two stores in the Hamptons and during select trunk shows at Bloomingdales SoHo – chose Crown Heights to be her studio’s new home because of the “diversity and growth” in the community.

“I rebel from tradition,” Campbell said. “It’s my way of doing things. My passion is being me.”

Located on Bergen Street between Franklin and Bergen Avenue, the appointment-only Barbara Campbell Studio features handmade leather and suede handbags, as well as jewelry made from gold, crystal, onix and more.

Besides shop, patrons can also can get their hair cut or layered with extensions.

“It’s a private shopping experience with pampering,” the designer said. “A spa, but not exactly a spa.”

Campbell’s handbags, made mostly from local materials in Brooklyn as well as the Garment District, are customizable according to customers’ needs. Fittings are also available.

For the designer, whose background is in entrepreneurship, being her own boss was crucial for creative success. She sensed early on in her career that the corporate world was not for her.

“I always encourage young teens to follow their passions,” she said. “Here in this studio, I can be me, do what I love and follow my dream. It’s exactly what I wanted.”

Campbell’s latest handbag collection will be available online Sept. 1.

“My goal is to make a woman as beautiful as possible and enhance her confidence,” she said.

To book a visit to the studio or an appointment, click here.


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