Our story
Create your own legacy.
Founded in Cape Town in 2009 by Majda Rabin, Chimpel is a South African luxury accessory brand celebrated for its handcrafted designs in premium full-grain leather and exotic leathers.
Inspired by the rich textures, colours and spirit of Africa, every Chimpel piece brings together timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship and understated luxury. Created for the modern woman, our accessories are distinctive, sophisticated and made to be treasured for generations.
Recognised both locally and internationally, Chimpel was named a finalist in the Cape Chamber Exporter of the Year Awards, a Top 12 National Finalist in the Standard Bank Threads Competition, and a recipient of the USAID Southern Africa Trade and Investment Hub Top Young Entrepreneur Award.
Chimpel – Create your own legacy
From hide to heirloom
Step 1
The hide
Every piece begins with a hide chosen by hand — full-grain, ostrich, crocodile or lambskin — read for grain, colour and character before a single cut is made.
Step 2
The cut
Panels are marked and cut around the hide's natural markings, so the leather's best face falls where you will see and touch it most.
Step 3
The hand
Edges are pared, folded, burnished and stitched by hand. It is slow work, and it is the reason a Chimpel piece keeps its line for years.
Step 4
The piece
Hardware is set, the interior finished, and the piece checked once more before it is wrapped and sent to you — made to be kept, and passed on.