Crossbody is the latest edition to the handbag company known as the Offero Collection. Priced at $445, the Crossbody bags (which come in black or cream) are theft-deterrent and feature a slash-proof lining, RFID protection (which prevents RFID skimming), and a patented combination lock connecting the straps to the bag which allows users to wrap the strap around a table, chair or shopping cart. This helps to prevent the bag from being stolen, as well as keeping the bag secure from pickpocketing while it is being worn. Based in Los Angeles, Offero prides itself on providing security while maintaining a sophisticated look.

Offero is a mother and daughter owned brand. Recently, Linda and Anna Dobbins discussed their company via an exclusive interview.

Meagan Meehan (MM): How did you initially get interested in fashion and why did you decide to focus on purses?

Linda: The idea for Offero was born during one of Anna Marie’s travels for her acting career. Frequently moving between sets and cities, she often felt uneasy about the safety of her belongings. Sharing her concerns with me, we realized the pressing need for a handbag that could offer robust security features without compromising on luxury and elegance.

MM: Your bags are anti-theft, so how important was that aspect to their design?

A: The anti-theft aspect of Offero Collection was absolutely central to our design. From the very beginning, our mission was to create a handbag that not only exudes luxury and style but also provides robust security features to ensure the safety and peace of mind of our users. Understanding the concerns many women have about the safety of their belongings, especially when traveling or in crowded places, we prioritized integrating advanced theft-deterrent features into every aspect of our handbags. This includes RFID blocking wallets to protect against electronic pickpocketing, slash-resistant straps to prevent theft attempts, and lockable zippers to secure the contents of the bag.

We believe that security should never be compromised for the sake of fashion, and vice versa. Each design decision was meticulously made to ensure that our handbags offer the highest level of protection while maintaining a sophisticated and elegant look. This commitment to both safety and style sets Offero apart and is a testament to our dedication to empowering women with accessories that provide both beauty and peace of mind.

MM: What prompted you to start your own company and how hard was it to establish and keep afloat?

L: Starting Offero during the COVID-19 pandemic was undoubtedly challenging, but it also provided us with unique opportunities to innovate and adapt. The pandemic disrupted traditional supply chains, posed logistical challenges, and altered consumer behaviors, making it difficult to launch a new brand. However, it also highlighted the need for security and peace of mind, which are at the core of Offero’s mission. The pandemic also accelerated the shift towards e-commerce, which we embraced by building a strong online presence. We invested in digital marketing, virtual showcases, and direct-to-consumer sales channels, which allowed us to reach a wider audience despite the limitations of physical retail. Moreover, the increased focus on personal safety during the pandemic underscored the importance of our product. Our anti-theft features resonated with consumers who were more conscious about security in uncertain times. In the end, the challenges of starting Offero during COVID-19 made us more innovative, agile, and determined. We emerged stronger, with a product that truly addresses the needs of our customers in a rapidly changing world.

MM: These bags are luxury items, so how long did it take to pick the specific materials used to craft them?

A: It took us two years of dedicated development to select the specific materials used to craft Offero Collection. Given that these bags are luxury items, we wanted to ensure that every material met the highest standards of quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. During this period, we meticulously researched and tested a variety of materials to find those that would not only look and feel luxurious but also provide the robust security features integral to our brand. This included sourcing premium leathers, durable fabrics, and state-of-the-art hardware. We collaborated with experienced artisans and suppliers, ensuring that each component was carefully chosen to contribute to the overall elegance and functionality of our handbags. Our goal was to create a product that exudes sophistication while offering unparalleled protection. The two years of development allowed us to perfect every detail, from the tactile feel of the leather to the strength of the slash-resistant straps and the reliability of the lockable zippers. This rigorous process ensures that Offero handbags are truly luxurious items that women can trust to keep their belongings safe and stylish.

MM: What is it like to work as a mother-daughter team?

L: Working as a mother-daughter team is an incredibly rewarding experience. It brings a unique blend of trust, understanding, and shared vision that is hard to replicate in any other professional relationship. For us at Offero, this dynamic has been the cornerstone of our success. As a mother, I bring a wealth of experience, business acumen, and a steady hand to guide the development process. My expertise in entrepreneurship and innovative design has been invaluable. On the other hand, as an actress, Anna Marie infuses the brand with fresh perspectives, creativity, and a keen sense of fashion trends. This combination allows us to balance practicality with style, ensuring our handbags are both functional and fashionable. Our close bond allows for open and honest communication, making it easier to navigate challenges and celebrate successes together. We complement each other’s strengths and provide support during tough times, which has been especially important given the challenges of launching a brand during the pandemic. There are, of course, moments of disagreement, but our mutual respect and shared commitment to Offero’s mission help us work through them constructively. Overall, working as a mother-daughter team has deepened our relationship and allowed us to create something truly special together.

MM: What has been some of the most memorable feedback that you’ve gotten about this brand and your products?

A: One of the most memorable pieces of feedback we’ve received came from a customer who has purchased every style of bag we’ve made since we started. Her loyalty and enthusiasm for Offero is incredibly special to us. She shared how our handbags not only provide her with a sense of security but also make her feel stylish and confident. Knowing that our products have had such a positive impact on her life is deeply rewarding. Her feedback reaffirms our mission to create high-end luxury handbags that empower women to feel safe and elegant. It’s stories like hers that inspire us to continue innovating and striving for excellence in every handbag we design. Her continued support and satisfaction are a testament to the quality and appeal of our products, and we are truly honored to have earned such a dedicated customer.

MM: What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far?

A: The highlight of our career so far has been the moment we saw our first collection of Offero handbags come to life and receive an overwhelmingly positive response from our customers. Launching Offero was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a shared vision to create something truly special. Seeing our handbags in the hands of women who appreciate both the style and security features we meticulously designed was incredibly rewarding. One standout moment was when a customer, who has been with us since the beginning, shared that she felt empowered and stylish carrying our bags, and even purchased every style we’ve made. This reaffirmed our mission and the impact we hoped to achieve. Additionally, being able to work closely as a mother-daughter team and successfully bring our vision to fruition has been profoundly fulfilling. It’s not just about the business success, but also about the bond and shared achievements we’ve experienced along the way. These moments and the heartfelt feedback from our customers have truly been the pinnacle of our journey with Offero.

MM: How do you envision Offero evolving over the next five years?

L: Over the next five years, we envision Offero evolving into a leading brand synonymous with luxury, style, and security. Here’s our roadmap for the future:

1. Expanded Product Line: We plan to diversify our offerings beyond handbags to include other accessories such as wallets, travel bags, and even tech-friendly items like laptop sleeves and phone cases, all incorporating our signature theft-deterrent features.

2. Innovative Technologies: We aim to stay at the forefront of innovation by integrating advanced security technologies.

3. Global Reach: We aspire to expand Offero’s presence internationally, reaching more customers through strategic partnerships, global distribution channels, and targeted marketing campaigns. We want women worldwide to experience the confidence and style that Offero handbags provide.

4. Community Engagement: We plan to deepen our engagement with our community of customers by creating platforms for them to share their stories, provide feedback, and participate in exclusive events. We want to foster a strong, supportive community around our brand.

5. Collaborations and Limited Editions: We look forward to collaborating with designers, artists, and influencers to create unique, limited-edition collections that push the boundaries of fashion and functionality.

In essence, our vision for Offero over the next five years is to grow not just as a brand, but as a movement that champions style, security, and sustainability, empowering women to carry their essentials with confidence and elegance.

MM: What are your ultimate goals for the future and is there anything else that you would like to mention?

A: Our ultimate goals for the future of Offero revolve around establishing the brand as a global leader in luxury handbags that prioritize security and style, as well as empowering women. At the core of our mission is the empowerment of women. We aim to support initiatives and partnerships that promote women’s safety, education, and entrepreneurship. We want Offero to be more than a brand; we want it to be a catalyst for positive change.

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To learn more, visit the official website of Offero.