Meet Ling Fu, the Founder of LLORA

Founder: Ling Fu
Brand: Llora, #03-14

Before handbags, you actually started out designing furniture. Did that influence how you design your bags today?

Absolutely, both consciously and subconsciously, especially when it comes to functionality and proportion. The study of marquetry taught me the highest level of symmetry and perfection, which is why our ethos is “form follows function.” Every proportion is in perfect agreement with llora’s commitment to simplicity, functionality, and ease of use.

When you’re working on a new Llora bag, what usually comes first → the shape, how it feels, or the person you see carrying it?

It’s a trinity; these three elements can’t be separated. Everything is crafted in the name of shape, feel, and the person carrying it.

What’s one small detail in a Llora bag that people may not notice, but you’ll never compromise on?

The size and quality of the thread, as well as the exact distance between each stitch. These elements work closely together in the overall stitching and are distinct details that we will never compromise on.

If you could pick just one Llora bag for yourself → not as the designer, but just as Ling,  which would you choose and why?

If I had to choose just one, it would be the Effortless. I created it to be a true companion for travel and life—it remains creaseless, even when folded, making it so easy to pack and live with. It’s multi-functional, understated, and intentionally discreet, yet completely evocative in its simplicity.

What’s the longest you’ve ever spent perfecting one design? What made you keep going with it?

Without a doubt, the Effortless. We spent over six months obsessing over every line, curve, and detail. What kept me driven was a relentless desire to create something so pure and understated that it couldn't hide behind unnecessary ornamentation. When design is that simple and discreet, every single element has to be flawless—that challenge is what truly fuels my passion.

Is there one signature detail that makes you immediately go, “That’s Llora”?

Our long-bar hardware, which is a patented design unique to llora.

One of Llora’s early international breakthroughs started with a cold email to Barneys New York. What made you decide to just go for it?

Barneys was the ultimate mecca of fashion—the Ivy League of luxury department stores. To me, being accepted into Barneys wasn’t just a retail deal; it was like earning a place among the very best in the world, and I knew we had to take that leap.

What’s one thing you always have in your bag that people probably wouldn’t expect?

My acupressure pen! I keep one with me all the time. It’s my instant go-to whenever I need a quick moment to re-energize or reset during a busy day.