A Contemporary Swiss Luxury House
HEIGS was born from a simple idea: to create timeless objects inspired by the harmony between nature, craftsmanship, and contemporary design.
Every handbag is created with intention—understated in appearance, exceptional in quality, and designed to become a future heirloom. Luxury, to us, is quiet, authentic, and made to last.
Johanna van der Drift — Founder
For more than twenty years, Johanna van der Drift has called Switzerland home. Living between Bern and Paris, she draws inspiration from two worlds: the serenity of the Alps and the effortless elegance of one of Europe’s great design capitals.
Before founding HEIGS, Johanna built her career in luxury hospitality and interior design, where she learned that every detail shapes an experience. While designing bespoke tableware for her hotels in collaboration with Villeroy & Boch, the HEIGS emblem appeared for the very first time.
The logo, featuring Heidi and the lion, was hand-cut by a traditional Scherenschnitt artist from the Simmental. This centuries-old Swiss paper-cutting craft perfectly reflects the values at the heart of HEIGS: heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.
The idea for HEIGS came during one of Johanna’s journeys between Bern and Paris. She envisioned a handbag that combined elegance, durability, and emotional value. Together with master leather artisans in France, she brought that vision to life through handcrafted bags designed to be treasured for generations.
Daan van Luijn — Co-Founder
Daan van Luijn’s connection with HEIGS began long before the brand itself. Growing up surrounded by creativity, he developed a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. His mother, Johanna’s lifelong friend, was a talented seamstress and woodworker who taught him that the finest objects are made with patience, skill, and intention.
Based in New York, Daan brings the contemporary vision behind HEIGS. He believes luxury can tell a different story—one rooted in nature, thoughtful design, quiet confidence, and enduring quality.
He shapes the visual identity of HEIGS, translating these values into a brand that feels refined, modern, and internationally relevant. Together, Johanna and Daan combine heritage with a forward-looking perspective, building a luxury house inspired by the landscapes, craftsmanship, and spirit that define their world.
Heidi Goes Safari
HEIGS stands for Heidi Goes Safari.
Heidi is more than a name. She represents a state of mind—curious, grounded, adventurous, and effortlessly elegant. Deeply connected to nature and tradition, yet always open to discovering new places, cultures, and perspectives.
The lion symbolizes strength, courage, and quiet confidence. Together, Heidi and the lion embody the essence of HEIGS: heritage, journey and exploration, softness and strength, timelessness and modernity.
This philosophy is reflected in every collection. Inspired by alpine landscapes and named after destinations on Heidi’s journey, each handbag tells a story of discovery while remaining rooted in craftsmanship and enduring design.
Swiss by heart. Made to travel. Crafted for generations.
