American Express Gold x LUAR: An “It” Bag for Fashion Week (and Every Week)

Since its 2021 debut, LUAR’s Ana Bag has been a hit, collecting legions of fans in and outside of the fashion world. Count American Express among them: We’ve teamed up with Raul Lopez, Founder and Creative Director of LUAR, on a limited-edition Amex Gold x Ana Bag that has dropped just in time for New York Fashion Week.

The bag is available on Luar.world in three metallics to complement our Gold, Rose Gold and new limited-edition White Gold Card designs. Each sports a playful set of charms — a mini martini glass and burger, an airplane, a Dunkin’ coffee cup and more — all nodding to the recently updated U.S. Consumer Gold Card.

We chatted with Lopez about his design philosophy and why he’s excited about the partnership:

First off, tell us: What inspired the Ana bag?

RL: My grandmother’s bags from the 1960s: there’s that sleekness, almost like a briefcase, but with a Mod-inspired round handle.

I’m a self-taught designer, and one of the reasons the Ana has so much meaning to me is because it represents the culmination of years of hard work. I’m happy to say it’s become LUAR’s signature silhouette.

Take us back to LUAR’s early days. How did you get started?

RL: My design background has always been a bit rebellious. I started out by sneaking into fashion university libraries because I couldn’t enroll in school. That sense of resourcefulness is something I still carry with me.  

Did you ever think you’d be partnering with American Express? 

RL: It’s an honor. The partnership is a major milestone for my brand. Amex is recognizable globally and that’s what we’re aiming for at LUAR.

I wanted to create a piece that complements the elegance of the Gold Card, but also taps into my love for the worlds of food, design and travel. My creative process usually begins while traveling and people watching. Also, anyone who knows me knows that I am a major foodie.

What do you look for in a restaurant?

RL: I like to keep things interesting by looking for new spots and trying new places. I’m always around Brooklyn and downtown Manhattan so I turn to my trusted guide, Resy, for new ideas in those areas.

What do you love about this new Ana?

RL: The gold tones are so unique. We wanted this bag to really shine and stand out when worn, and I feel like we nailed that. Also, the charms add playfulness. I like the miniature Dunkin’ coffee cup because I’m there all the time. My order is two French crullers, three hashbrowns and an oat milk iced latte.

How are you feeling about everyone seeing this bag on your runway this week?  

RL: I’m excited. I can’t wait for everyone to experience this bold new addition to the Ana collection.

Us too. Thank you, Raul!