If you’re at all on the lookout for what’s hot on the Canadian fashion scene, you’ve probably heard of LAMBERT, the vegan leather handbag line that’s been all the rage for a few years now. Combining both practicality and trendiness, LAMBERT bags have become essentials for many, and new mothers swear by their backpack which also acts as a diaper bag.
This spring, the brand is inspired by nature and launched new colours that are on trend: Blossom (a pink reminiscent of cherry blossoms), Sage (green), and Buttercup (pale yellow). The staples of the line, like the famous Olivia round backpack, are given a springy look that makes us seriously want to wear colour this season! LAMBERT has no shortage of ideas and has many collaborations in the works. On Instagram, influencers are proudly wearing new accessories from the Quebec brand. What makes these bags so special? We asked the founder of the brand, Mélissa Lambert, a few questions to find out more. Here are her answers.
What inspired you to start your own business?
With over 10 years in communications and brand management, I wanted to challenge myself; that of reinventing backpack fashion. It was pregnant with my second child when the dream of a responsible, ecological and slow fashion business model was born. Being convinced that it is possible to combine chic and practicality, I launched alone my brand of vegan leather bag, certified by Peta, in 2017. Lambert is the result of a love story between motherhood and envy to change the world, one conscientious purchase at a time.
What makes your brand different from others?
Lambert has been accessorizing Canadians for over 3 years now. Year after year, the company has experienced a meteoric rise. What differentiates Lambert since the beginning are our values and the multi-functionality of our products. Lambert combines local female talent and international expertise around respect for the values of its customers. Our designs are versatile, timeless and adapt to all facets of a life.
Do you have a life motto?
Dare to turn your dreams into reality.
Tell us about the reality of your industry.
Despite being a relatively new brand, Lambert has managed to find its place in a difficult industry: fashion. The challenge was sizeable, but our committed stance on being against animal cruelty and the attention to detail that we have shown since the beginning has really paid off. Our industry locally, can seem inaccessible to many when it comes to price, while on the international side, there has been a struggle with quality. Lambert had to offer magnificent products at competitive prices.
What product is always in your purse?
As a mom, I often have a medium to large bag with an array of items for all facets of my life! My favourite everyday bag is the Charlotte bag which allows me to store all my personal items and all my professional items separately. I always have my notebook in my bag so that I don’t forget anything and can write down ideas any time.
What is one fact about you that would surprise others?
I have three sons and LAMBERT was born between the second and the third!
What changes for women would you like to see in 2021?
More than ever, we need to stick together – support each other, listen to each other, engage and celebrate. one another At LAMBERT, we are a 100% female team and are fortunate to be able to really create opportunities to promote the female cause. I would like each of us, every business and organization to come together to move forward together, one step at a time. Everything is possible, you have to believe in it, work on it and persist.
Our Wear LAMBERT capsule, which launched on April 29, carries this message. Our slogan “You Can Have It All” underlines our desire to celebrate the individuality and strength of each and everyone! The collection includes an organic cotton cap and t-shirt entirely made in Canada.
What advice would you like to give to women today?
In 2021, it is entirely possible to be an accomplished businesswoman and mom at the same time. It presents challenges, but with the right tools and partners, we can do wonders! I think being a mom makes me a better boss. As a mother, I am the head of my small tribe. I teach my children to become independent, motivate them to succeed and support them in their projects. These are the same roles as that of a business leader. I also like to promote “woman power” within the company, since our team is female, it is important to encourage and celebrate!
LAMBERT is actively working to become even more eco-responsible. Innovation and quality are at the heart of our priorities!
