FASHION 101
maurices Project Handbag Finalist : Robin Lee Simmons
When Fashion Indie teamed up with maurices to produce Project Handbag, we we’re prepared for a full helping of handbags to judge and select from. “Full helping” was definitely an understatement. We were downright stuffed. Hundreds 
of handbags we’re submitted from all across the US. Designers from all walks of life and of all ages submitted handbags that ranged from amazingly inventive to down right illegal (woman who submitted a picture of a fall 2006 Ferragamo bag, yeah, we’re talking about you).
In the end, once we whittled down the entries, we we’re left with ten promising handbags, from ten unique designers. Robin Lee Simmons (pict left) clutch caught our attention for its use of vintage fabric, intelligent design (why every clutch doesn’t have a handle is beyond me) and diamond accenting. We got a chance to chat with the designer about her creation and love of fashion.
Fashion Indie: What was your inspiration when creating this handbag?
Robin Lee: I have always been inspired by vintage fashion. Vintage clothing and accessories are timeless, elegant and a work of art. I love the simplicity and elegance of this bag. The classic appeal is essential to every fashionista!
The Winning Bag - Vote for it at maurices.com
FI: Have you always wanted to be a handbag designer?
RL: Working as a photographer & makeup artist I have been around fashion and beauty for years. It wasn’t until I was pregnant with my son and became unsatisfied with a diaper bag purchase that I decided “I know how to sew, I will make my own!” I designed a diaper bag and then the ball started rolling…I needed chic little handbags that would fit right inside the bag to make my life easier, but still allowing me the fashion freedom!
FI: How is fashion a part of your daily life?
RL: Like all girlie-girls, I am addicted to clothes, shoes, jewelry and BAGS!! I change my handbag depending on my outfit…just like my shoes!
FI: Describe your style?
RL: My style is Vintage-inspired with a touch of SASS!
Popularity: 3% [?]
maurices Project Handbag Finalist : Kate Weimer
We catch up with Project Handbag finalist Kate Weimer about her design and desire to become a handbag designer.
What was your inspiration when creating this handbag?
My inspiration when I created the purse was the fabric itself. It was from my grandma’s fabric stash and I think herringbone is a cool weave. When I showed the completed bag to my parents, they told me my grandma (who died last year) had used the rest of the fabric to make a skirt.
Have you always wanted to be a handbag designer?
Ever since high school, when I created my own gym bag out of a towel, I have wanted to be a hangbag designer. I have sold purses to friends as well as at craft shows. Hopefully this contest will help me get noticed!
How is fashion a part of your daily life?
Fashion is fun. I love to watch shows like Project Runway and America’s Next Top Model because they show the stylish, interesting things you can do with a piece of cloth. I used to work at JoAnn Fabrics, and fabric inspires me every time I see a unique print or weave or texture.
Describe Your Personal Style
My personal style is a mix of old and new. I love to layer pieces in interesting ways, and my signature is accessories–jewelry, belts, pins, etc. I like shopping at Goodwill because it’s like a treasure hunt, and I like mixing the pieces I find there with the rest of my wardrobe. I don’t think fashion has to be expensive. And I definitely like to mix it up. My style is always changing!
Why do you shop at maurices?
maurices has great clothes. They cater to the category I fall into–I’m not a Juniors size anymore because I have hips and boobs, but I’m not a Missy size either. I’m just starting my career and maurices provides quality and fashion at a good price.
Popularity: 1% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #1 Kate Weimer
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
Creating purses out of vintage or recycled materials is important to me, because it emphasizes the fact that being green is easy, fun, and fashionable. I love to design bags with unique details. This purse is made of herringbone wool from my grandmother’s fabric stash. A beautiful vintage twisted metal ring centers the four decorative straps. Store-bought lace trims the top, and the lining is a pirate fabric. A metal snap closure secures all your items in place. There is one interior cellphone pocket.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I have been creating purses since high school. I have created several custom designs, and no two bags I create are alike. I especially love taking a girl’s favorite pair of jeans, reworking them, and making them into a brand new bag for her. I entered this contest because maurices has a great view of fashion and style, and this versatile purse meshes well with that.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 4% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #2 Elayne Mayes
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
I am submitting a tote design with tubular handles. The main body material is satin nylon with matching patent vinyl trim. The hardware is shiny silver with round rings for the straps and dome stud hardware detail. The bottom panel is patent with 4 metal feet.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I am a handbag designer and a creative person and I thought it would be fun to do this after I put my boys to bed.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 3% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #3 Sara Kahrs
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
It is a clutch closure, with handles, so that it is easier to carry and is ideal for everyday purposes. The bottom is flat enough that it can sit upright on any surface. I envision the material to be leather-like for a classy look that can be carried to any occasion. The accent strips could be of a contrasting color in the same material, creating a two-tone look, which makes the accessory more versatile. The second image that I added is my vision of how I would make the inside of the purse, with a satin lining, a small pocket for items such as lipstick, and a smaller pocket for something like a cellphone. I also added a zipper pouch pocket on the other side because that is something I always look for in a purse before I purchase it.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I am involved in clothing in 4-H where I make my own garments, and fashion design is something I am very interested in for the future. I saw the sign for this opportunity at a local maurices store, and was very anxious to take this chance to create a design of my own.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 3% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #4 David Tezanos
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
The design I am submitting is my Florida Beach Bag. The design is for the young and trendy. I incorporated the use of a braided leather palm tree for a handle giving the bag a beachy feel. I also used a stainless steel star fish bag accessory to complete the beachy feel.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I’m an aspiring Cuban designer born in West Palm Beach, FL. I grew up in Mami, FL. I believe the difference in the two cities gave me my style. I’m kinda like a city slicker. I took to the fast life of the city and the cultural diversity Miami gave me. I entered the contest to possibly give me another chance to be discovered. I hope you like my design…
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 2% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #5 Phil Hatchet
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
This is a classically styled patent leather clutch purse inspired by traditional Italian leather shoes. The bag has a modern twist with small gathers in the center.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I am currently a fashion student at California College of the Arts in San Francisco, California. Though my forte is usually in menswear, I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of designing a purse that had practical elements and an elegant feel. I paint traditional tattoo pieces when I’m not at school or work.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 2% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #6 Megan Angelina Miller
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
As with all my designs, I think of basic silhouette’s with added touches of flare that give each design a feeling of creativity and personality. I kept the prompt “I love being a girl” in mind for this handbag. With a simple shape and extra details, the owner of this bag will feel comfortable and confident.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I am a second semester sophomore in Fashion Design at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. Accessories are crucial part of fashion, one that I often overlook. I wanted to design these handbags as a challenge to myself and my design ability. I also feel it it important to get my name and designs out to the public. Thank you for this opportunity.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 2% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #7 Cathy Bullington
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
The Retro Metro Bag is a classic with a twist. Spectator style gets glammed up faux jewels. Milky white suede is accented with black and cream patent. The frame and chain are in powder coated black metal.
The Retro Metro Bag is perfect with the little black dress, the classic black suit, or a spectator style sweater and jeans. Girls of all ages will have fun carrying it.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I am an art teacher at a middle school. I always wanted to be a fashion designer growing up so this is a fun opportunity to play at being one. I also think that by entering, I am setting a good example for my students to pursue their dream. I had several designs drawn and some of my students helped me decide which one to enter.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 6% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #8 Kathryn Welsh
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
The bag is a combination of the bags I currently used plus a stylistic look. It would have the expandability of an expandable folder; large enough to hold binders, books, etc.; and a little added style, which every woman needs. A zipper and clasp opening adds security to the bag and the metal feet under the bag protect it from spills on the floor, rough surfaces, etc. The shape and style of the bag also allows it to be made at any size.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I am a graphic design student within the College of Design Architecture, Art, and Planning at the University of Cincinnati. I greatest problem I have as a student is finding bags to carry my supplies, books, and computer. Usually I have to resort to using shopping bags, high school backpacks, etc. I love purses almost as much as I love shoes, and I would love to find a classy purse that looks good, has the functionality that I need, and can be purchased at a reasonable price.
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 6% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #9 Robin Lee Simmons
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
Soiree Envelope Clutch :: Vintage Inspired Aqua & Gold Brocade with Ecru Lace & Rhinestone/Faux Pearl Buckle - Rear Handle Loop. Gold Satin Lining & Magnetic Snap Closure. Size :: 11”Wx5”H
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I have been designing handbags for almost 7 years. In the past I have been fortunate to have a few featured in such magazines as InStyle & Lucky. My inspiration for entering this contest is simple. I have always designed/created handbags that have a lavish look and appeal, however fit into the world of the average fashionista! Maurice’s customer is the customer that I have always catered to throughout my designing days!
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 1% [?]
maurices Project Handbag : Submission #10 Christina Oertel
ABOUT THE HANDBAG
My bag takes a somewhat classic style and enhances it with the layers of leather and great detailing. I think the silver and wood accents play off of each other really well. Because the outside is sophisticated and structured, I added bright fabric to the inside to make things fun. My bag would slightly larger than the average handbag. Big enough to carry a reg. sized planner and all other essentials.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
I’m a 26 year old, mother of two, working graphic designer. I LOVE LOVE LOVE fashion…. I wish there were NYC-type jobs I could work at in small town Wisconsin– I’ll keep dreaming. 
I’m a self-admitted girly-girl and organized multi-tasking go-getter.I’ve been sketching fashion ideas and designs since I was a little girl. It has always been a passion.
A friend/co-worker told me about the competition. She said she thought I’d have a good shot. I hope she’s right :-).
Hope you enjoy my design!
LOVE THIS BAG - VOTE FOR IT HERE
Popularity: 2% [?]
Ten Best Websites for Fashion Designers
Young designers trying to make a name for themselves out there have got it rough. Aside from all the competition from the big names you need to differentiate yourself from the thousands of other designers trying to make it big in this make-or-break world of high couture and low-end knock-offs.
In order to help you make it as a fashion designer and give you a leg up on some of your competition, I’ve compiled a list of the ten best websites for emerging fashion designers. These sites will provide you insight on becoming a fashion designer, learning your competition and getting some much needed publicity when you need it. Enjoy
Look at all the helpful goodness on our top bar. Tell your friends!!!
FashionIndie.com is not on the top of the list cause I run it, it’s on here cause we’ve built this site to be a resource for young designers looking for a little publicity and tips. We regularly feature emerging fashion designers, we always promote the events and shows of young designers, and best of all WE CAN BE BOUGHT. We have a program called Fast Track which puts you’re story, event, or sale ahead of all the other tips we get thrown at us. What this means is that within 24 hours your brand can be in front of thousands of our readers and circulating through dozens of our site feeds which distribute our content.
In addition, we regularly develop events specifically for our network of over 5000 emerging fashion designers. Events have included fashion shows, charity auctions, design competitions, grants for fashion designers, networking events, and fashion weeks all devoted to young fashion designers. To find out more about these events be sure to register with us.
Style Maps keep customers connected to their favorite designers.
More than just a pretty looking social network for the stylishly inclined, Trendible.com gives emerging designers the type of tools they can only pray for (or pay for since Trendible is free and everything else isn’t). When a designer joins Trendible.com they can post pictures and video of their collections, connect to their customers and send customers updates on sales & events, new collections, and information on the stores that carry them. Designers can judge their popularity based on those their connected to figure out what other designers and stores their customers love, giving them the type of information they need to determine their demographics, psychograpics, buyer behavior and geographic location. It’s a big information pot for designers looking to build a brand.
3. Etsy.com
If you’re a jewelery designer or addicted to DIY then Etsy is should be your home. Easy to use and quick to master, Etsy allows you to sell you’re goodies to a large audience of craft addicts. If you’re stuff is a little less “earthy” there’s no reason to turn down the site. At the end of the day, the traffic you drag to your store will result in sales. Etsy’s platform and interface makes it the perfect choice for a designer looking for a quick, clean web store.
MySpace.com’s dedicated spot for fashion
4. MySpace.com
Yes the independently run Facebook is better, cleaner and, pretty soon, more popular, but MySpace’s customizations will allow you to build a web presence on the cheap without needing to know too much about coding. Make your profile an extension of your brand with your colors, text and images. Adding photo albums of collections and videos of your shows are always a great idea, but be sure to keep it professional. Too many graphics and blasting music and crazy images will only distract from your collection, making it difficult for a buyer or magazine editor to care about your work. Also, be sure to watch your top friends and comments. No need for the wrong message to come across to your customers. When you’re finished building your profile be sure to connect to Fashion Indie (myspace.com/fashionindie)
The ideal site for designers who are focussed on t-shirts, Big Cartel is a quick solution that lets you sell quickly and promote easily. Customized URL’s help you connect to your store from any where on the web and check out couldn’t be easier. If tee’s are your thing, be sure to check out this site.
A private network of fashion enthusiasts, The Fashion Spot has quickly grown to becoming a monster of a site filled with the type of user interactions designers creme for. Users can talk about their favorite designers and discuss all aspects of fashion. If you get an invite treasure it and use it to fill the space with the type of carefully planted information only membership access can grant you.
7. Google.com
Google isn’t the first place you think of when you’re a young designer, but the type of information you can extract for the site is extremely valuable. Here are some quick tips for using the site.
Search : site:www.yourwebsitehere.com to find out how many pages of your website Google is paying attention to.
Search : link:www.yourwebsitehere.com to find out how many other websites are connecting to you website.
Search : “your label name here” to see how many pages contain your name. You never know, you might be on some blog or may have missed a press clipping.
You can also sign on to get weekly and daily updates for those days when Google spots your name or website on the web. Just sign-up for Google Alerts to find out about these helpful reminders
Everyone’s on the Tube, even Ford Models.
8. Youtube.com
There’s no denying the power of the Tube. Upload your runway videos, introduce yourself to the world, show people behind the scenes, whatever you want to show, show. Share your world and don’t be surprised if it starts answering. Video is the best way to show who you are and for your designs to move. It’s one step closer to bringing your customers closer to your collection. Get on their and make yourself a star.
9. Facebook.com
Told you I’d mention Facebook. Perfect for connecting you to the people who can make your collection grow, Facebook is great cause many of the companies you’d want to connect to like Conde Nast and Hearst are already on there. As an added bonus, the extra plug-ins that the site provides can let you sell your collection and share it with the hole Facebook audience making you a Facebook superstar in no time.
Completely dedicated to the craft of fashion manufacturing, this site is perfect for the designer looking to grow. The blog plays more like a book with chapters dedicated to various subjects on the manufacturing process. The writing is entertaining and worth taking a look at if you’re at the point of your career where you want to increase production. We can’t all design out of basements forever.
Hope this list if helpful indies. Be sure to comment with more suggestions if you have them.
Popularity: 14% [?]