Laura Brown x Mon Purse Unveil Their Chic Collaboration At Le Turtle

Tuesday night, Australian handbag label, Mon Purse, celebrated its capsule collection with InStyle editor in chief, Laura Brown. "Australian Spirit Meets New York Utility" is how they describe the three-handbag collection. Designed to be simple, sensible, and stylish, Brown's collection delighted guests. Discerning editors from InStyle, Harper's Bazaar and elsewhere mingled at Le Turtle, as they admired the cheekily named styles. In truth though, Brown was the living, walking crowd-pleaser. Friends enthusiastically vied for time with the famously vivacious editor. In a Tory Burch dress, with her leopard bag cross-body, Brown—a model of how to live it up—energetically joked with her fans. Brown is refreshing that way, in an industry of unwritten rules. Also, gracious. Instead of using facetime to promote her bag line, she used it to shine the light on DJ Prince. He's the focused 15-year-old from Indiana she handpicked to spin hip-hop for the night. Her "bestie" she, the star, wants to make a star.

Speaking of stars. Vision is one thing. But vision, execution, success, and Laura Brown? It adds up to Lana Hopkins, entrepreneur on the go, who is equal parts business smarts, beauty, style, and charm. In chic NYC black by The Row, with a sleek haircut, the Mon Purse founder juggled greeting guests, smiling for the camera, explaining the brand, and more. Mon Purse made its U.S. debut this week. Its collection of customizable leather handbags and accessories is available online; and will be at select Bloomingdale's December 15. The luxury brand allows you to create bespoke pieces using 3D modeling software. Desire a black grainy leather tote, with burgundy suede lining, gold metal details, and your initials monogrammed on it? A few clicks later, it'll be your next bag.

If you missed the party, you can shop the Laura Brown x Mon Purse collection here. We think you'll love (and use) all three: "The Boss Lady" tote; "The Girl On The Go" bucket; and "The Minx" evening bag.

[Photos by Neil Rasmus/BFA.com]