This is a snapshot into the life of HUNTING SEASON’S Danielle Corona. Literally. 

Why did you become a designer?
Growing up, I always had a creative streak but wasn’t sure where I’d wind up professionally. Years later, I chose to study accessories design, and at 24 years old I was fortunate enough to land internships in Rome at Valentino, where Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli were in charge of accessories, and at VBH, founded and designed by V. Bruce Hoeksema. While in Italy, I was able to visit leather factories in Florence (with Maria Grazia and Bruce themselves) to witness meticulous Italian craftsmanship first-hand, and became obsessed by the craft, care, and consideration that went into each piece. The perfectionist artistry on display was what ultimately pushed me to make accessories design my vocation. During the second internship, at VBH, I decided to start Hunting Season, a modern accessories brand inspired by the “hunt” for the best of the best—from expert traditional craftspeople to superior-quality raw materials. I wanted my future customer to know who, where, and how her purchase was made. This, I feel, is true luxury.
 
Who or what drives your creativity?
I am driven by everything I experience in life—nature, films, books, travel, and people, not to mention my passion for craftsmanship and beautiful materials. 
 
What's the most exciting thing about the fashion industry today?
I find it exciting that the fashion industry is much more inclusive.
 
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A veterinarian.

How has your background influenced who you are today?
As a Miami native and the daughter of Cuban immigrants, my Latin roots have helped me connect to parts of the world that lie outside the fashion capitals. My husband happens to be Colombian, and we’ve decided to raise our children in his native Bogotá. Consequently, Hunting Season accessories are produced there, in a small factory where I am a constant presence. I’m thrilled, for instance, to be able to share with the world Colombian straw-weaving techniques that have been passed down for generations—techniques that many accessories buyers are still unaware of.
 
How would you describe your designs?
My designs are minimal and lifestyle-oriented; the craftsmanship and materials—from the featherweight wooden box frames to the metal hardware handmade in Florence—speak for themselves. We create modern heirlooms: timeless, scrupulously crafted, and proudly made in Colombia. 
 

Who do you consider to be the true creatives in the world? 
People who create items that are at once functional and beautiful. Steve Jobs, with his attractive and easy-to-use iPhone, had a knack for this.
 
Why is creativity important now more than ever?
I believe it has always been important. How would we have evolved without creative minds? I think the present is particularly exciting, though, because through technology it’s easier than ever to share ideas.
 
Your favourite place in the world and why?
The kitchen table at my parents’ house, where I grew up and love to revisit to catch up with my family. We can chat for hours. 
 
How do you waste time, when your schedule is clear? 
It’s rare for me to have an open schedule, but when I do I try to read.
 
What's your greatest ambition?
Creating something that inspires people and enriches their life as well as mine. 
 
Who do you most admire and why? 
My father, a Cuban immigrant to the United States who went from a newspaper-delivery boy to a respected professional in his industry. He exemplifies the American dream and is a reminder to me that, with enough dedication, anything is possible. He is also the most generous person I know. 
 
What would you like to do that you currently can’t?
Read and travel more for pleasure; experience new cultures and places.
  
What would you most like to change about the world?
I wish everyone would understand that we are all connected and are one. 
 
What would you most like to change about yourself?
I used to have a long list here. Nowadays, I’m happy with myself and have learned to appreciate my flaws. However, I need to get off my phone more often!
 
If you could ask anyone a question (living or dead), who would you ask, and what would you ask?
To anyone who has passed away - what comes next?
 
Who is someone (living or dead) that you would like to meet? And why?
My ancestors. I’d like to understand who they were, how they lived, and what they wanted for future generations. 
 
Who’s the coolest person you know and why?
My husband, because he has the best understanding of himself and is passionate about everything he does. 
 
The best advice you've ever been given?
Being your true self is the most interesting thing you can be.

QUICKFIRE Q's – short & sweet!
 
First thing you do when you wake up?
Check my phone (embarrassing!). 
 
Last thing you do before bed?
Ugh—check my phone!
 
Favourite artist?
Leonardo da Vinci, a master of many things. 
 
Favourite song?
So many, but today it’s Bohemian Rhapsody, because I just saw the movie and have been playing my Queen albums all week. 
 
What are you reading right now?
The Invention of Nature, by Andrea Wulf.
 
Do you have any phobias?
Heights! 
 
Where can we find you on a Friday night?
Out at dinner with friends.
 
Favourite colour?
Red.
 
Favourite thing to eat?
Pasta.
 
Least favourite thing to eat?  
Processed foods.
 

What would your last meal be?
Da Enzo, in Rome, for the best traditional Roman dishes.
 
What can’t you live without?
My children.
 
How would you describe your generation in 5 words?
Innovative. Inclusive. Creative. Connected. Ambitious.
 
Describe yourself in 3 words...
Grateful. Forgetful. Curious.
 
How would your friends describe you in three words?
Scatterbrained. Honest. Kind. 
 
What’s the best thing about Bogota?
Salsa-dancing.
 
What’s the worst thing about Bogota?
Traffic.
 
Bogota’s hidden gem...
Escuela de Artes y Oficios Santo Domingo.
 
What makes life worth living?
Love.
 
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
Right here.