We’re throwing it back to the Y2K - an era that was built on low-rise jeans, baby tee’s, butterfly clips and hot pink flip phones. Life felt simpler, and not just because Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie were the dynamic fashion duo we never knew we needed. Whether or not you rocked your denim mini skirt with uggs, or feel personally victimized by early 2000’s style, it holds a special place in our hearts because Botkier New York was born.
Our story begins in 2003, with the launch of a very special bag, and a core style to this day. The Trigger became an icon of NYC street style, combining edgy zippers and studs with a fresh design motif. The beloved handbag was an instant hit with every busy, working girl in the city - it was a design that combined fashion & function with a little New York attitude and helped define the contemporary accessories market as we know it today. As the collection expanded, so did the love of the brand which became a cult-favorite among fashion junkie’s and celebrities alike, including Amy Winehouse, Angelina Jolie, Blake Lively, Jessica Alba, and Megan Fox to name a few.
Fast-forward to today, it’s hard to believe we’re celebrating 20 years (!!!) of Botkier in the city that has inspired us (and that we call home) since day one. In honor of this momentous milestone, we took over Bar Hugo in Soho for a Y2K themed celebration amongst influential friends and brand partners that we’ve had the honor of working with throughout the years. Guests were welcomed to take in the illustrious skyline views along with playful photo-worthy elements like a customized selfie mirror, branded disco balls, and pastel-colored handbags (including the Trigger, of course) on display from the latest spring collection.
In the spirit of spring, we sent guests home with the Bedford Mini Canvas Tote, displayed throughout the room and filled with on-theme goodies from our brand partners. Shout out to our amazing brand sponsors who participated in such a monumental moment; we feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to partner with such stellar brands that we personally love and support. Here’s a little peek of what was included in the 20th Anniversary swag (Bedford) bag;
Over the course of the evening, guests enjoyed light bites and cocktails over conversation with friends and fellow partygoers - including memories throughout Botkier’s evolution since 2003. Some guests were longtime fans, others were new followers and/or partners of the brand, but there was one similarity in several of the stories - that Botkier was one of their “firsts.” The first designer bag they saved up to purchase, the first bag they were gifted by a loved one, the first bag that stood out when they discovered their love of fashion. The same stories we’ve heard versions of from loyal customers over the years. Even through the stages of growth and change, it’s humbling to be a part of so many firsts as a small business. We are endlessly grateful to everyone who has been a part of this journey with us and thank each and every one of you for your continued support of the brand. It’s been a helluva 20 years and we are so excited for all that’s to come! Cheers to our Botkier babes.
xoxo,
The Botkier Team