Monica Botkier has always had an eye for detail. She began her career in fashion as a photographer, working on shoots for leading fashion magazines. A born and raised New Yorker, Monica was living and working downtown when she created the Trigger bag in 2003. Inspired by her busy downtown lifestyle, the Trigger became known as ‘the bag that launched an industry’ and resulted in immediate cult status.

Botkier has created a niche in the market where there was a void, an approachable designer brand. Botkier was the first independent designer accessories brand and Monica continues to run the business with the same innovation and passion as she did from its inception. Botkier accessories embody luxury through custom detailing, innovation and quality while focusing on functionality.

In July of 2007, Monica was recognized for her contributions to the world of accessory design and became a member of the esteemed Council of Fashion Designers of America.

For Spring 2008, Monica brought the Botkier brand philosophy to footwear. Gracing the pages of Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, InStyle, Marie Claire, Glamour and Lucky; Botkier has established itself as a major contender.

In 2009, Monica teamed up with Michelle Trachtenberg, Joy Bryant and Minnie Driver to design bags to benefit Oxfam International. Oxfam is a charity that fights poverty worldwide with a focus on women and their families. Monica is extremely passionate about this and the project continued in 2010 with Lake Bell. In addition, Monica also collaborated with famed artist John Baldessari to create a tote bag benefiting ICI.

Botkier opened a flagship store in New York’s NoLIta in January 2010. Located on Mott at Prince Street and designed by Monica, the space exudes the unique and edgy downtown sophistication that is Botkier.

2011 Monica Botkier was chosen through the CFDA and Luxottica to create Botkier’s first pair of sunglasses for the Vogue Eyewear brand. They will debut in late Fall!

A favorite among celebrity fashion icons, Botkier handbags and shoes have been spotted on many of the most recognized women in the world; Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Beyonce, Vanessa Hudgens, Jessica Alba, Rihanna and Rachel Bilson to name a few.

Monica currently resides in Brooklyn with her husband and three children.