Ethan Koh designs for the woman who has it all

Ethan Koh

Occupation: Handbag designer

Defining moment:
"In November 2011, Harrods decided to carry my line, and I was so excited. They took a chance on us and believed in us even though we were a new brand. I feel a luxury brand should be appealing to clients because of their unique story, not because celebrities love it or they have thousands of followers on Instagram. Harrods validated what we were doing."

Words of advice:
"You have to be prepared to make sacrifices while sticking to what you believe in. Entrepreneurs like Donald Trump and Steve Jobs always said that you have to have good mentors around you. I surround myself with straightforward and transparent people, and I make sure I am a good listener. Feedback is important. Value your customer - they are the ones that keep your company running."

a designer, I would be a pâtissier. After all, luxury is about arousing desire, like food." While this may sound odd coming from Ethan Koh, a handbag couturier, it makes sense when you see his delectable creations.

Elegant minaudieres are crafted from the finest crocodile and alligator skins, then dyed in eye-watering shades of shocking yellow, pastel pink, lollipop red, green calamansi and violet. Many are decorated with whimsical animal motifs carved out of precious stones, or glitter with crystal-studded clasps.

But this eye candy is strictly for an exclusive clientele, with prices ranging from £2,500 (HK$31,800) to £25,000 for bespoke handbags.

"Ethan K bags aren't just for anybody - I am not designing for the average luxury customer. This is for someone who has everything and is bored with brands and logos," says the 27-year-old designer, who counts Saudi royalty among his customers.

"Our clients don't carry a bag from us because they want their friends to recognise it. Our clients have already arrived - they don't need their handbag to show the world that they have done well."