Reed Krakoff’s Rise, Fall, and Fashion Comeback: A Look at His Chic Legacy

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Many handbag lovers were left stunned when Reed Krakoff shut down his namesake label in 2015. Known for its sleek, structured designs and modern elegance, the brand had quickly earned a cult following.

As of 2025, Reed Krakoff pieces are only available through resale platforms, and the original website, reedkrakoff.com, appears to have been taken over by unrelated—and potentially scam—content (we’re not linking to it).

Launched in 2010, the luxury brand quickly earned a reputation for its sleek, structured handbags and sophisticated accessories. However, despite its initial buzz, the brand struggled to achieve long-term traction, ultimately halting production due to financial challenges and limited market growth.

Chanel Iman arrives at the launch dinner for the Reed x Kohl’s Collection at the Kohl’s PR Showroom in New York CityChanel Iman arrives at the launch dinner for the Reed x Kohl’s Collection at the Kohl’s PR Showroom in New York City on April 20, 2016 (Credit: WENN / Andres Otero)

For a brief moment, it looked like a stylish comeback was on the horizon. Partnering with Kohl’s, Krakoff introduced a more accessible line called REED, designed to bring his signature aesthetic to a broader audience.

Chanel Iman looked lovely in a black and tan color-block Reed jumpsuitChanel Iman looked lovely in a black and tan color-block Reed jumpsuit

While the collaboration generated excitement, a full brand revival never quite took off. In the years since, Krakoff has shifted his focus to new creative pursuits, most notably taking on the role of creative chairman at jewelry brand John Hardy in 2022.

Chanel Iman toted an optic white medium belted convertible satchelChanel Iman toted an optic white medium belted convertible satchel

The launch dinner for the Reed x Kohl’s Collection at the Kohl’s PR Showroom in New York City was attended by several lovely Reed Krakoff celeb fans, including Chanel Iman, Emma Roberts, and Solange Knowles.

REED RK40 Medium Belted Convertible Satchel in Optic WhiteREED RK40 Medium Belted Convertible Satchel in Optic White, $109

The fashionably styled celebs posed in front of a wall patterned with new REED bags and purses.

Emma Roberts flaunted her legs in a black and blue Reed Meredyth geometric scuba sheath dressEmma Roberts flaunted her legs in a black and blue Reed Meredyth geometric scuba sheath dress

This fresh collection still featured the chic elements of the Krakoff handbags that we have always loved, but now they were more affordable.

Emma Roberts at the Reed and Kohl's collection launchEmma Roberts at the Reed and Kohl’s collection launch in New York on April 20, 2016

Emma congratulated the American fashion designer Reed Krakoff on the collection after the event, writing on Twitter, “Congrats Reed Krakoff on his fabulous collaboration with @kohls #MustReedxKohls.”

Emma Roberts

Emma showed off her feet in black strappy sandals by Tabitha Simmons.

REED Atlantique Large Pouch in Black BlueREED Atlantique Large Pouch in Black Blue, $29

Solange rocked a sleeveless, color-block, asymmetrical Reed dress paired with modern and architectural sandals.

Solange KnowlesSolange Knowles at the Reed and Kohl’s collection launch in New York on April 20, 2016

Reed Krakoff left Coach in June 2014 to focus on developing his eponymous fashion label. As the president and executive creative director of Coach, he transformed the company from a family firm to a global player.

Solange Knowles at the Reed and Kohl's collection launchSolange Knowles at the Reed and Kohl’s collection launch in New York on April 20, 2016

Which of these handbags is your favorite?

Solange Knowles totes a belted convertible mini satchelSolange Knowles totes a belted convertible mini satchel

Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Reed Krakoff

Reed Krakoff’s designs have captivated numerous celebrities, blending modern aesthetics with timeless elegance. Here are some standout moments featuring Reed Krakoff:

Reese Witherspoon’s Effortless Street Style

  • Event: Shopping Trip in Beverly Hills
  • Outfit: Reese Witherspoon looked effortlessly chic in a bright fuchsia sweater paired with skinny jeans and a stylish fedora.
  • Handbag: She carried a Reed Krakoff Atlantique Bionic mini leather tote, adding a structured elegance to her casual look.
  • Discover more: Reese Witherspoon’s stylish errand run with a Reed Krakoff purse

Rachel Zoe’s Exotic Arm Candy

  • Event: Family Outing in Beverly Hills
  • Outfit: Celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe stepped out in a casual ensemble, letting her accessories take center stage.
  • Handbag: She toted a wildly exotic Reed Krakoff Python Boxer Bag, featuring a knotted strap and two-tone coloring.
  • Explore her style: Rachel Zoe totes a Reed Krakoff Python Boxer Bag

Dianna Agron’s Pop of Color

  • Event: Jack White Concert at the Wiltern Theater
  • Outfit: Dianna Agron embraced an edgy concert look with a black-and-white skirt and jacket combination.
  • Handbag: She added a pop of color with a bright yellow Reed Krakoff mini flap-top nappa shoulder bag, elevating her ensemble.
  • See her look: Dianna Agron beams with a Reed Krakoff yellow bag

Charlize Theron’s Vibrant Appearance

  • Event: Variety Brunch
  • Outfit: Charlize Theron stunned in a captivating green Reed Krakoff dress, radiating sophistication and confidence.
  • Details: The bright hue and sleek design highlighted her statuesque figure, making a memorable fashion statement.
  • Discover more: Charlize Theron dazzles in a bright Reed Krakoff dress

Julianna Margulies’ Red Carpet Elegance

  • Event: 2013 Emmy Awards
  • Outfit: Julianna Margulies graced the red carpet in a uniquely designed Reed Krakoff gown, exuding elegance.
  • Footwear: She complemented her dress with PVC-trimmed ankle-strap sandals from Reed Krakoff, adding a modern touch.
  • See her ensemble: Julianna Margulies dazzles in a Reed Krakoff gown at the Emmys

These celebrity moments highlight Reed Krakoff’s appeal among fashion-forward stars, offering designs that seamlessly blend bold statements with classic elegance.

REED RK40 Belted Convertible Mini Satchel in Black Tejus SnakeREED RK40 Belted Convertible Mini Satchel in Black Tejus Snake, $79