NEW YORK — After years of pining for the company’s rich leather bags, John Bartlett has been named creative director of Ghurka, the Norwalk, Conn.-based accessories firm.
“It’s an exciting fit,” said Bartlett, who is relaunching his men’s sportswear collection tonight at the tents at Bryant Park. “I’ve been obsessed with Ghurka since I went to school in Massachusetts. It’s been under the radar for years, but it’s a classic, authentic brand, and is something I’ve always been fascinated by.”
Bartlett will have creative control of men’s and women’s accessories, which was previously done by Simeon Turnbull, who has left the company.
The 30-year-old company specializes in luxe sporty leather bags. It was acquired by Accessory Network Group in April. The company opened a flagship on Madison Avenue here and launched a women’s collection of bags for fall that features horn-detailed leather hobo bags and canvas and leather totes.
“John’s credibility and creativity will enable us to grow our business both in luxury bags, which we are well known for, as well as add new product categories with a singular vision,” said Abe Chehebar, chief executive officer of Accessory Network Group.
Marc Beckman, president and co-owner of Designer Management Agency, which represents Bartlett as well as designer Alice Roi and Jones Apparel Group, views the move as a strategic one for both parties.
“John’s star is rising, and with Ghurka and the infrastructure Ghurka brings, it will surely be [a successful venture],” Beckman said. “John has a true American sensibility and that’s what people are looking for.”
Ghurka’s sales are up 30 percent over last year, Chehebar said, and with Bartlett’s arrival, he expects to double business in 2006. He declined to give an exact volume figure.
Details of the contract were not disclosed, though Chehebar said that the alliance is a long-term strategic alliance with multiple renewal options based on performance. Bartlett starts at the end of the month.