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Is Leather The Next Big Thing in Chicago?

By Jenny Berg

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  • The Hudson, $1,395
  • The Astor, $795
  • The Cedar, $495
  • The Sheridan, $1,295

Photos: Courtesy of JGEREN

If three makes a trend, then Chicago is all about leather these days. First, The Frye Company popped up on Rush Street, offering leather boots of every stripe. Then, TOLA opened its local headquarters and started whipping up leather accessories. And today, we caught wind of the just-launched JGEREN.

Billed as the first luxury line that's made of Midwestern leathers and handcrafted in the city, the brand was founded by friends Lori Wallis and Jen Gerenraich. The duo makes goods using proprietary leathers sourced from grass-fed steer hides, and they work with local craftspeople to add stitching and hardware. Inventory ranges from outerwear to jewelry and accessories and for men and women.

But we're betting that the four limited-edition handbags ($495 to $1,395) will be the stars of the gift-giving season. Ranging from large totes to sleek clutches, the bags are all named after Chicago streets. Could one pay homage to your very address? Find out below, where the bags are all pictured. And if one of them catches your fancy, buy it online or at the Purely pop-up shop on Michigan Ave.
· JGEREN [Official Site]
· TOLA Offers Locally Made Leather Goods [Racked Chicago]
· The Frye Company is Open in the Gold Coast [Racked Chicago]