Modern Heirlooms: Deseri Kelley on DESERI’s Vision for Lasting Luxury

By Deseri Kelley

To start things off…

I’m Deseri Kelley, the founder and designer behind DESERI. My love for handbags started at just nine years old, when I received my first luxury leather bag. I still remember the feeling - it made me feel extra special, beautiful, and confident, like I was carrying something that truly reflected who I was becoming. That moment showed me how a handbag could be more than just an accessory; it could hold meaning and transform how you see yourself. Today, DESERI is about creating modern heirlooms that are timeless, elegant pieces that tell a story and inspire that same feeling of confidence and pride. DESERI is not only about fashion; it’s about legacy, ownership, and leaving something that lasts.

What often gets overlooked is the perspective Black business owners bring to fashion. We’re not only designing products, we’re creating stories, building legacy, and introducing cultural depth that brings something fresh to the luxury space. Too often, the focus is on challenges when the real story is innovation. There’s so much vision, creativity, and originality shaping what’s next in fashion. That part doesn’t always make the headlines, but it’s happening every day, and it’s what excites me most about the future of the industry.

It’s important because when people understand the difference between hype and heritage, they can make more meaningful choices. True luxury isn’t built overnight; it’s built with consistency, attention to detail, and a commitment to legacy. When consumers know that, they start to value the brands and designers who are putting in the work to create something lasting. That shift matters because it not only supports the growth of thoughtful businesses but also raises the standard for the entire industry. Luxury should feel timeless, not temporary, and I think that’s something people really want to invest in once they see it clearly.

DESERI is breaking norms by showing that luxury doesn’t have to look or feel like what’s always been done. We made history as the first Black-owned designer store in Dallas, TX’s Galleria, and that alone proves that new stories belong in spaces once reserved for legacy brands. Our handbags are designed as modern heirlooms; pieces that are stylish today but meant to last for generations. Beyond the product, DESERI is about cultural connection. Whether through creative campaigns or experiences, we’re redefining how luxury brands show up in community and culture. It’s about blending timeless design with modern storytelling and leaving a mark that lasts.

I’m really excited about this next chapter for DESERI. We’re expanding our collections with fresh designs and accessories that still mirror timeless elegance. There are also some exciting collaborations on the horizon that bring together fashion, culture, and experience in new ways. For me, the vision has always been about more than handbags—it’s about building a legacy that inspires. So, what’s next is growth with intention: reaching more people, creating more meaningful moments, and continuing to prove that modern luxury can be both beautiful and lasting. Readers can join our email list to stay connected—be the first to know about new collections, events, and experiences at www.DESERI.comand follow along on Instagram at @deseriofficial.

Connect With Deseri

www.deseri.com

IG: @deseriofficial