Danielle Corona clearly appreciates precision. On a recent afternoon, I arrived at the Hunting Season designer’s Financial District studio just a week after she moved in, expecting to find clutter or unopened boxes. As I stepped into the immaculate studio, there was not a hair out of place – and it quickly became apparent that any form of mess is not in line with Corona’s style or that of her accessories line.

“Timeless, chic, and elegant” is how the 2018 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist described her luxury label. Launched in 2010, the collection is defined by simple elegance, clean lines, and a minimal aesthetic that Corona is naturally drawn to. The accessories are so refined that they prompted the New York Times to dub them ‘Hermès Junior.’ A bold claim, yes, but take a look Corona’s designs and you will understand why. Elegantly displayed along the wall beside coffee table books and décor, Hunting Season handbags are denoted by clean lines, bold colors, and rich textures.

Corona explained. “It’s our search in the world for the balance between all these things – the balance between minimalism and design.”

Corona studied accessory design, and worked in Valentino’s accessories design studio in Rome, where she developed a profound appreciation for artistry.

“Every morning I would walk by the atelier and see the women sewing couture in this beautiful room where everything is white,” Corona recalled. “I always think about walking by that room, which was the ultimate design and craftsmanship I’ve ever seen. They’re beading and embroidering everything by hand, so I saw that respect for your craft and what you are doing.”

The Colombian-born designer is undaunted by the production side. She is happiest working in the company’s factory in Colombia Local artisans piece together her designs by hand, bringing their heritage, life, and story into the clean designs. The CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund is a major next step.

“I feel it’s a rite of passage for designers. It feels like an important step for our brand. Especially in the industry to get the insight from the judges and support from the CFDA and Vogue feels like kind of a stamp of approval,” Corona stated.

With advice from the prestigious panel of judges already proving useful to Corona, it’s Theory CEO Andrew Rosen who made a lasting impression.

“We got to meet Andrew in his office, and he said, ‘Just be yourself. Stay true to your vision. What you’re doing is great and don’t forget that,’” the designer recalled. “I always think about him when I’m questioning myself or anything that I do. I just remember that I’m here for a reason. It helped me have that confidence in myself, my brand, and what I created.”

Corona has long-term plans to expand into new categories, but first up is the launch of e-commerce this December.

“We’ll get to merchandise and do a buy the way we want to do it, and control the way we want people to see and buy the brand,” she said with excitement. “This is a place we can communicate directly with our customer.”

For our full interview with the 2018 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalist, check out our Question Time Series exclusively on our IGTV Channel.