Naiara Elgarresta: this Basque accessory brand is expanding its range of categories while remaining true to its philosophy of slow fashion
Naiara Elgarresta: this Basque accessory brand is expanding its range of categories while remaining true to its philosophy of slow fashion
Slow fashion has successfully caught on in the Basque Country, there being a collective social awareness in terms of consuming garments made under favorable conditions for workers and which feature sustainable, eco-friendly, and recycled materials. Ultimately, it is about buying higher quality products that will last for a longer period of time. That is precisely the philosophy that Naiara Elgarresta embraces when designing the accessories for her brand NE. She rejects uniformity and mass and standardized production in favor of creating small collections and limited editions, always produced within Spain.
Elgarresta studied footwear and accessories design in Madrid, London, and Florence, after which she settled in Italy to work in the prototyping department at a company that supplies Chanel, Tamara Mellon, and Tom Ford, among others. After a decade of acquiring knowledge and experience at international firms, she returned to the Basque Country to work as a footwear designer.
In 2021, she made her dream come true by launching her own accessories brand. Her first collection of handbags –called Florencia– was followed by numerous others (such as New York, Euria, Vida, and Río), always seeking to emphasize the products’ handmade nature, unique details, and the care and quality with which they are made using resistant and biodegradable materials (natural linen, canvas, goatskin, and cowhide), as well as eco-friendly materials (recycled neoprene). She has also created a capsule collection alongside artist Iker García Barrenetxea: four exclusive pieces made in Italian Nappa leather and featuring the painter’s drawings.
Elgarresta’s talent and creativity have been recognized not only by the public but also by institutions. In 2024, she became part of the Ekinn Program promoted by the government-owned Fomento de San Sebastián (the municipal economic development company). This accelerator for innovative business projects offered the designer professional training, advising services, and support to strengthen her brand.
Today, in addition to the online store, NE has points of sale inside premium multi-brand stores and has expanded its range of categories to wallets, belts, and footwear – all the while remaining true to the brand philosophy of slow fashion.
Naiara Elgarresta
