In a tale that feels straight out of a Hollywood script, the story of Peter and James unfolds like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon. This collaboration between Swiss-American, Zurich-based leather craftsman Peter Nitz and California jewelry brand James Banks Design has blossomed into a fashion phenomenon, culminating in the creation of the now-iconic Butterfly Bag.
A Creative Partnership with a Unified Vision
Peter and James' journey began six years ago when Peter started crafting the leather pieces for James Banks jewelry, and the connection was instant. Combining Peter’s skill in leatherwork with James Banks' jewelry expertise, they set out to create an object that showcased the best of both brands.
It’s about honoring traditional skills while giving them a fresh, modern twist that keeps things exciting and unexpected.
A Symbol of Transformation
The Butterfly Bag is more than just a fashion accessory; it’s a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary elegance. Its design is both practical and symbolic.
Versatility is a defining feature, allowing it to be worn as a backpack, carried by hand, slung over the shoulder, or even styled as a clutch. When held as a handbag, it resembles a butterfly at rest. When transformed into a backpack, it spreads its wings, reflecting the transformative journey of its creators and the individuals who carry it.
Each piece in our collection is crafted in limited quantities, with every color and hardware combination produced in an exclusive run. This ensures that every item is as unique as the person who owns it.
The Butterfly Takes Flight
The Butterfly Bag's appearance in "Emily in Paris" marked a pivotal moment for Peter and James. Featured prominently in one of the most beloved scenes of the series' fourth season, which premiered on September 12, 2024, the bag catapulted from a designer's dream to a global fashion sensation.
"Seeing our Butterfly Bag featured in the Netflix series is a truly special moment, both personally and professionally," says Peter Nitz.
This transformation from a collaborative idea to a standout accessory in one of television's most stylish shows highlights the power of creative partnerships and the surprising path to success in the fashion world. The Butterfly Bag is a reflection of the shared vision between Peter Nitz and James Banks Design, showcasing the amazing things that can happen when different talents come together.
A Spark of Hollywood Magic
James Banks Design, founded by Adam Shulman and Heidi Fink, is renowned for its distinctive jewelry design, notably butterflies. Designer Adam Shulman (married to Hollywood star Anne Hathaway) and Heidi Fink, an accomplished goldsmith with years of experience creating iconic jewelry and props for the film industry, each bring a unique blend of creativity and expertise to the brand.
The bag made its unofficial debut at a New Year's Eve celebration as 2024 began, adorning the arm of Anne Hathaway at a fashion event in Shanghai.
Later, when the Butterfly Bag officially launched in September 2024, Anne Hathaway shared a "Proud wife alert" on Instagram to celebrate the moment.
Through this collaboration, we’re excited to build on our tradition of quality, expanding our collection with even more beautifully crafted pieces. These upcoming products, launching soon, reflect the stories and values we care about, while staying true to our commitment to creativity and lasting design.
Click here to go to Peter and James' website