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Francis Pierre Laborde's unique handbags have taken the Upper West Side's Grand Bazaar by storm, following viral attention on TikTok. His electric blue, leather, and pony hair designs have captivated shoppers, leading to long lines and a frenzy for his creations. Laborde's rise from a struggling designer to a sought-after local brand highlights the power of social media in transforming small businesses.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Grand Bazaar in Manhattan has become a hotspot for shoppers eager to purchase one of Laborde's coveted handbags. The excitement around his products has led to the implementation of a new online ticketing system to manage the overwhelming demand and ensure that the shopping experience remains orderly. This change came after chaotic scenes unfolded during previous market days, where crowds surged at his table, making it difficult for customers to secure a purchase.

Key takeaways

• Laborde's handbags gained viral popularity on TikTok, leading to increased demand.
• He has introduced an online ticketing system to manage the crowds at his market stall.
• The designer has seen his sales surge significantly over the past year, reflecting a growing interest in local NYC fashion.

Timeline: how we got here

Francis Pierre Laborde began selling his handbags at the Grand Bazaar approximately seven years ago. However, it wasn't until late 2022 that his brand gained significant attention, thanks to a viral TikTok video. The following months saw a steady increase in his customer base, culminating in a chaotic sales event in November 2023 that prompted the establishment of an online ticketing system.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Laborde's decision to implement an online ticketing system is a recent development aimed at reducing crowd chaos during sales. This system is designed to ensure that shoppers have a fair chance to purchase one of his handbags without the overwhelming pressure of a rush.

What was already established

Prior to going viral, Laborde had minimal marketing efforts, relying mainly on word of mouth. His previous struggles included inconsistent sales and uncertainty about his future in fashion. The viral video marked a turning point, bringing significant visibility and demand for his products.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While Laborde's handbags are not directly available in the UK, the phenomenon highlights a growing trend of local designers gaining recognition through social media. UK consumers can draw inspiration from this surge in demand for unique, handmade products, considering similar local designers in their own markets.

Businesses and jobs

The success of local designers like Laborde can inspire UK-based artisans and small businesses to explore online platforms for marketing and sales. The trend signifies a shift towards valuing unique, handcrafted items over mass-produced alternatives, which may influence purchasing decisions and business strategies.

Policy and regulation

As local designers gain traction, there may be implications for trade policies concerning handmade goods. The UK government could look into supporting local artisans through grants or marketing initiatives to boost the craft sector, similar to what Laborde has experienced in the US.

Numbers that matter

• 27 minutes - the time it took for Laborde's handbags to sell out during a recent market day.
• 7 years - the duration Laborde has been selling his handbags at the Grand Bazaar.
• 1 viral TikTok video - the catalyst for Laborde's surge in popularity and sales.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Handbag: A small bag used by women to carry personal items.
• Viral Video: A video that becomes widely popular and is rapidly shared across social media platforms.
• Grand Bazaar: An open-air market in Manhattan known for its diverse range of products, including handmade goods.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Consumers interested in unique fashion items should keep an eye on local markets or online platforms that feature artisanal products. This trend may lead to increased availability of similar products in the UK.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the demand for local fashion continues to grow, expect more local designers to gain exposure through social media. Consumers may find it beneficial to explore local artisans and support homegrown talent.

Signals to watch

• Increase in social media mentions and shares of local designers.
• New local markets or fairs dedicated to handmade goods.
• Changes in consumer purchasing patterns towards artisan products.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support local designers by purchasing their products.
• Follow social media accounts of emerging brands to stay updated on new releases.
• Participate in local markets to discover unique items.

Don’t

• Overlook the value of handmade products in favour of mass-produced items.
• Dismiss social media as a viable platform for discovering new brands.
• Assume that all local designers have high price points; many offer affordable options.

Checklist

• Research local artisans and their products.
• Check social media for trends in local fashion.
• Visit local markets regularly to support small businesses.
• Engage with local designers online to help build their brands.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the success of Laborde is inspiring, it is essential to recognise that not all local designers will achieve similar results. Factors such as market saturation, competition, and changing consumer preferences can impact the viability of small businesses. Moreover, the reliance on social media for visibility can be unpredictable, as trends can shift quickly.

Bottom line

The rise of Francis Pierre Laborde's handbags underscores the potential for local designers to thrive in the current fashion landscape, particularly through effective use of social media. As consumers increasingly seek unique products, there is an opportunity for similar brands to emerge in the UK, fostering a richer marketplace for artisanal goods.

FAQs

What makes Francis Pierre Laborde's handbags unique?

Laborde's handbags are unique due to their handmade quality, vibrant designs, and the personal story behind their creation, which resonates with consumers seeking individuality.

How did Laborde's brand gain popularity?

Laborde's brand gained popularity through a viral TikTok video that showcased his handbags, leading to increased demand and visibility among shoppers.

Is there a ticketing system for purchasing Laborde's bags?

Yes, Laborde has implemented an online ticketing system to manage the crowds and ensure fair access to his handbags at the Grand Bazaar.