Cecchi de Rossi is not just a luxury leather brand; it is a testament to the harmony of tradition, innovation, and artistry. Known for its groundbreaking wine-dyeing techniques and timeless designs, the brand captures the essence of Tuscan craftsmanship. We sat down with Tommaso Cecchi de Rossi, the creative force behind this unique label, to uncover the stories, processes, and passions that shape the Cecchi de Rossi universe.

Rumor has it that your wine-dyeing process evolved by accident. Can you share the story behind this discovery?

In 2008, while finishing my studies in agricultural sciences, I worked at my family’s vineyard. During harvest, a machine malfunction caused grape must, rich in tannins, to spray onto my leather bag. Initially upset, I tried to clean it, only to find that the leather had absorbed the acidity and tannins, leaving permanent yet stunning marks. That night, I couldn’t sleep, consumed by the mystery of why wine had such a transformative effect on leather.

The very next day, I returned to the cellar to experiment. Since then, I haven’t stopped refining the process, eventually patenting a unique technique where wine serves as the base, infused with natural extracts. The alcohol dissolves, the acidity penetrates, and the tannins bind, creating rich, lasting colors that are truly one-of-a-kind.

How has your background in agriculture and your family’s winemaking heritage shaped your designs?

Nature is the foundation of every Cecchi de Rossi creation. Growing up surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and centuries-old winemaking traditions taught me to value what the earth provides. My family has farmed the land since the 1600s, and this heritage influences my approach to design, where nothing goes to waste, and every material is respected.

Interestingly, my family also ran one of the most renowned tanneries specializing in “vacchetta in fossa,” a natural vegetable tanning process. Although I never worked in the tannery, perhaps there’s something in my DNA that drew me to leather crafting.

How do you create bags without seams?

Early in my journey, I had no formal experience in fashion, which allowed me to approach design without preconceived limits. I was captivated by ancient Roman techniques of molding leather over wooden forms, originally used to make armor.

This method, known as “armor leather,” involves soaking the leather, stretching it over wooden molds, and securing it with nails to maintain its shape. Once dried, the mold is removed, leaving behind the bag’s unique structure. This seamless construction creates a sculptural quality that is both functional and beautiful.

What makes your vegetable tanning process unique?

We source hides exclusively from European farms practicing extensive, ethical husbandry. The hides are tanned with natural tannins and then dyed with our patented wine-based colors. This process celebrates imperfections, retaining the natural marks of the leather, making each piece truly one of a kind.

How do you ensure zero waste in your production?

Over the past 13 years, we’ve developed a process that turns every scrap into something meaningful. Larger offcuts become smaller accessories, and the remnants of those are used to craft mini bags or even jewelry-like rings.

At Cecchi de Rossi, reuse isn’t just a principle—it’s part of our DNA. We aim to create durable, heirloom objects that honor the materials and the hands that shape them.

Where in Tuscany are your bags made?

Our atelier is nestled in Pescia, a picturesque town in the heart of Tuscany, surrounded by my family’s vineyards and olive groves. Staying rooted here, where it all began, is vital to our story. Some of the specialized processes are carried out by trusted artisans within a 30-kilometer radius, ensuring every product is crafted with care and expertise.

How exclusive are your limited-edition collections?

Some models are made to order, with a current waiting list of about three months. We produce roughly 700 bags a year, intentionally keeping our output low to maintain the conscious, sustainable ethos that defines our brand.

Can you describe the durability of your bags?

Our bags are built to last a lifetime. We select and treat materials to enhance their strength and resilience. For example, we use cotton thread reinforced with nylon for extra durability and lightweight aluminum hardware designed in-house. Even after a decade, our bags only grow more beautiful as they age alongside their owners.

What feelings or sentiments do you hope your designs evoke?

Romanticism, innovation, and mindfulness. Cecchi de Rossi creations are meant to resonate deeply with their owners, becoming extensions of their personalities and stories.

What keeps you motivated and inspired?

This journey hasn’t been easy—building an identity and style is a constant challenge. But every time a client believes in me, it reignites my passion. The addition of two business partners has encouraged me to keep pushing forward, exploring new ideas, and refining our craft. Inspiration flows naturally from my endless curiosity to discover and test new possibilities.

What advice would you give for caring for your bags?

The best way to care for Cecchi de Rossi bags is to use them every day. They absorb your essence and grow more beautiful over time. Each bag comes with a lifetime guarantee and can always be repaired, ensuring it remains a part of your journey forever.

What’s something unique about Cecchi de Rossi that you’d like customers to know?

We’ve recently introduced an atelier experience where clients can visit our studio, collaborate with us to create a custom color, and craft a personalized piece. It’s a way to certify the authenticity of our products and share the story behind them.

Cecchi de Rossi is not just a fashion brand—it’s a lifestyle. Beyond bags, we’re expanding into interior design, food and beverage, and hospitality, creating a holistic world that embodies our values.

Each Cecchi de Rossi creation tells a story of heritage, innovation, and individuality. By owning one, you’re not just carrying a bag—you’re carrying a piece of Tuscany, a slice of artistry, and a reflection of mindful luxury. We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey.