Stepping away from a successful career in technology to pursue a long-held creative ambition is no small leap, yet that is precisely what Sarah Haran did.
Today, she heads the British luxury accessories brand that bears her name, celebrated for workmanship, colour and a modular design concept that gives customers “one bag, endless looks”.
From her studio to the atelier in Istanbul where each piece is crafted by hand from Italian leather, Haran has created a label defined not just by design but by purpose: handbags that bring joy to women’s lives, offering both style and versatility. With a loyal following across the UK and US, she has carved out a niche rooted in quality, creativity and customer connection.
What do you currently do at Sarah Haran Accessories?
As Founder and CEO, Haran occupies the unusual space where corporate discipline meets creative freedom. She continues to design every collection, guide the brand’s creative direction and oversee marketing, ensuring that each touchpoint reflects the central values of joy, versatility and craftsmanship.
“No two days are the same,” she says. “I might be reviewing new samples in the morning and hosting a live styling session in the afternoon. That blend of communication and creativity is what energises me.”
Her focus, she explains, is unwavering: to make handbags that are as functional as they are beautiful. From leather quality to colour palette to how each piece adapts to a customer’s day, Haran is closely involved in every detail. “Everything comes back to one idea — making women’s lives easier, while bringing them joy.”
What was the inspiration behind your business?
The spark came from a personal frustration: the struggle to find a handbag that was luxurious yet practical, stylish yet adaptable. “I wanted something that could evolve with my day without needing to change bags,” Haran says. This desire became the foundation of her modular handbag system, enabling women to customise their look with interchangeable accessories.
Two years of development followed, working with expert craftspeople to refine every element until function and elegance sat perfectly in balance. The result is a collection designed not only to suit any occasion but to empower its wearer.
Her purpose remains clear. “We talk about bringing women ‘bags of joy’ — and that comes from listening to our customers. Their stories, how the bags fit into their lives, inspire me constantly. It’s about much more than handbags — it’s about helping women feel confident, organised and joyful every day.”
Who do you admire?
Haran’s influences are wide-ranging, anchored in respect for women who embody resilience, ambition and kindness. “My mother showed me that drive and compassion can absolutely go hand-in-hand,” she reflects.
She cites admiration for the Queen’s quiet loyalty and sense of duty, Victoria Beckham’s reinvention and work ethic, and Katie Piper’s extraordinary courage and optimism. She also acknowledges broadcaster Anthea Turner for her generous support of the brand and her ability to remain relevant with grace.
Closer to home, Haran praises Lynne Kennedy of Business Women Scotland for her work championing female entrepreneurs. But it is her own customers who, she says, inspire her most deeply. “Some have been with us since the very beginning. Their loyalty and encouragement are a constant source of motivation.”
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
“If anything, I’d have started sooner,” Haran admits. “Building a brand takes far longer than people expect — it’s years of learning, refining and staying resilient.”
Yet she is quick to acknowledge the value of her previous career. Her years in technology taught her discipline, strategic thinking and the structural foundations needed to scale a business sustainably. “So while an earlier start might have accelerated growth, I’m grateful for what those corporate years gave me.”
If she could advise her younger self, she’d keep it simple: be patient, learn constantly, and recognise that each challenge strengthens the path ahead. “Every day really is a school day — the journey is longer and harder than you imagine, but every lesson counts.”
What defines your way of doing business?
One word, Haran says, sums it up: joy. It runs through her designs, her brand communications and her approach to customer relationships. “Luxury shouldn’t feel cold or distant,” she explains. “It should feel uplifting, thoughtful and genuinely personal.”
She places strong emphasis on fairness, kindness and creativity, prioritising long-term relationships over quick wins. Whether working with her team, suppliers or customers, the goal is to build a brand that people enjoy being part of.
“The business was founded on the idea of joy, and that continues to guide every decision. When you lead with joy, it changes the way you design, work and grow.”
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Her first piece of advice is deceptively simple: begin before you feel ready. “There’s no perfect moment,” she says. “Progress comes from taking action, not waiting.”
She recommends finding a clear sense of purpose, something steady to return to on difficult days. For Haran, that purpose is helping women feel confident through design.
She also stresses the importance of surrounding yourself with people who share your values, who challenge you in the right ways, and who believe in your vision. “Listen to advice, but trust your instincts. Stay curious. Building a business is constant learning — and you simply don’t know what you don’t know. Forgive yourself as you go.”
Read more:
Getting to know you: Sarah Haran, Founder & CEO, Sarah Haran Accessories