Hi! My name is Caitlyn Ray and I handcraft bold, playful leather bags, while listening to music way too loud in my Chicago studio. My grandmother and business’ namesake, Hazel Ray, taught me how to sew when I was a child. I was immediately enamored with the craft, so I continued to hone my skills through classes, books, and of course, trial and error. I designed and sewed clothing throughout high school, which was essential as a plus size girly in the late 90’s. It was nice to finally have clothing that expressed my unique style at a time when plus size clothing wasn’t made for young adults. In college, I joined the theater department costume shop where I gained valuable knowledge and skill. After graduation, I discovered the amazing medium of leather and never looked back. I started my company, Hazel Ray, in an effort to bring a bit of fun and levity to the bag world. I source high quality leather hides and hardware and craft each bag by hand. Your bag is by your side everyday and carries your most essential goods- it shouldn’t be boring.