Minois Handbags, the Art of Intelligent Elegance

In an industry often defined by trends, fast fashion, and opulent aesthetics, Simone Tertoolen has introduced something refreshingly different—a harmonious blend of technology, usability, and timeless style.

As founder and CEO of Minois, Tertoolen is rewriting the handbag narrative by integrating innovative technology into sleek, minimalist designs, offering women a seamless and sophisticated experience.

Minois is not just another luxury bag brand; it is a statement of purposeful fashion. The idea behind Minois was born out of a simple, yet striking observation—how often do women struggle to locate everyday essentials in their handbags?

Whether it’s a ringing phone or a set of keys buried beneath layers of personal items, the struggle is real. It was this common frustration that inspired Tertoolen, an industrial designer with an extensive background in technology and user experience, to create a handbag that works smarter, not harder.

Before stepping into the world of fashion accessories, Simone Tertoolen’s career was deeply rooted in technology. A graduate of TU Delft with an education in industrial design and artificial intelligence, she honed her skills at renowned tech companies like TomTom, where she specialized in navigation and user-friendly design. It was here that she learned how to marry technology with intuitive usability—a skill that would later become the foundation of Minois.

Her approach to design is heavily influenced by her time studying in Paris, where she grasped the significance of a strong conceptual foundation. “In Paris, I learned that all details—materials, packaging, and even the way a product is presented—should align with the design intent,” she explains. This philosophy is evident in Minois, where every detail, from the leather to the LED lighting, is meticulously curated to enhance the user experience.

A Handbag That Thinks. Minois bags are designed to simplify daily life without compromising elegance. At first glance, they exude understated luxury—crafted from premium Italian leather with minimalist aesthetic. But inside, they reveal a world of smart functionality. The signature feature? A built-in lighting system that softly illuminates the bag’s interior, making it effortless to find items even in low-light settings.

No more rummaging in frustration. Minois bags also include wireless charging capabilities, allowing users to charge their phones on the go without the hassle of tangled cords. Thoughtfully designed compartments keep belongings organized, ensuring that style never compromises practicality.

These elements work together to transform the handbag from a mere fashion statement into an intelligent accessory that enhances everyday efficiency.

Minois represents a shift in how we perceive wearable technology. Unlike traditional tech gadgets that often prioritize function over form, Tertoolen believes that technology should be seamlessly woven into the fabric of everyday life—both literally and figuratively. “Technology should delight, not dominate,” she says. This philosophy is reflected in the bag’s design, where advanced features are integrated so subtly that they feel like an organic part of the product, rather than an intrusive addition.

This subtlety is particularly important when catering to women. Unlike men, who often seek out technology for its features, women tend to value functionality, beauty, and ease of use. “Women don’t want a tech bag filled with wires and buttons,” Tertoolen explains. “They want something that enhances their life without feeling like a gadget.” Minois achieves this balance beautifully, offering a bag that is as stylish as it is smart.

While Minois is still in its early stages, the brand is steadily expanding. Currently, the flagship design is available in three sophisticated colors – classic black, warm cognac, and the founder’s personal favorite, faqueta—a natural, untreated leather that darkens over time to develop a unique patina.

The demand for more variations has led to the development of a larger model designed to accommodate laptops, as well as a compact evening bag for nights out.

Beyond handbags, Minois is also venturing into accessories, including wallets designed with the same ethos of simplicity and practicality. Each piece reflects the brand’s dedication to quality craftsmanship, with all products made in Italy’s Scandicci region—an area renowned for its expertise in luxury leather goods.

As technology continues to shape the future of fashion, brands like Minois stand at the forefront of a new era—one where smart accessories redefine convenience and luxury. But what’s next? For Tertoolen, the possibilities are endless. She envisions expanding Minois beyond handbags, exploring new ways to integrate smart features into fashion while maintaining the core philosophy of user-first design.

One area of focus is the broader realm of women and technology. Historically, tech has been marketed towards men, but Tertoolen believes that women’s needs in this space are still vastly underserved. “There’s a lot of untapped potential,” she says. “Women appreciate technology when it genuinely enhances their lives, and we need to design with that in mind.”

A Bag for the Modern Woman. Minois is more than just a handbag—it’s a symbol of modernity, intelligence, and effortless style. By bridging the gap between fashion and function, Simone Tertoolen has created something that resonates deeply with contemporary women. In a world where efficiency is paramount, Minois offers a solution that is both practical and beautiful, proving that the best designs are those that make life not only easier but also more elegant.