Alek Wek: Model Designer
What made you decide to do a handbag collection?
As a model I'm always traveling from city to city. I always needed a good bag.I couldn't exactly find one that I truly loved, as a result I decided to start my own line. I always had a love for art; with me constantly traveling, I don't have the time to paint. Designing Handbags gets me back to my artistic side by drawing the bags and choosing the fabrications etc.The lining of all the bags is actually one of my paintings, it's a painting of my life line (in the palm of my hand.) I really enjoy it!
The bags are sold in Japan, London, California, NYC, New York state, and a few other specialty boutiques. You can also purchase bags on our website alekwek1933.com
What and who are your inspirations?
Many things inspire me such as landscapes when I'm traveling, my paintings,books, different colors, people and everyday life.
What are the bags made of?
I'm really excited about the spring 2008 collection, for the first time we are offering straw fabrications. We have them in a natural color along with a bronze and silver option, it looks GREAT! We also have leather, such as a pebble calf, and beautiful crocodile in a rich Black and Chocolate fabrication. This season we wanted to continue to use the beautiful fabric bags in a linen and a wax cotton, the bags age so lovely [with these fabrics]. To give the collection a little edge we threw in some patent leather and a gingham, both of theses fabrications are water repellant and very stylish.
What are the prices?
The bags start at $478 and range to $9,298. The fabric bags are least expensive and the crocodile is the most expensive. It all depends on the fabrication.
Describe your clientele
Our clientele is mainly for the style conscious woman whom is constantly on the go. Whether if it's to work, school or just shopping. We aim to please the shopper by offering additional straps to make shoulder bags into cross bodies, or by offering detachable dog leashes to make bags into clutches. My line is based on practicality and style.
What is your vision for the handbag line?
I see the line evolving into the many areas I love for instance, scarfs, candles, cushions and perfumes. I see the line collaborating with other designers to create something brilliant. This would give me a chance to step out of my comfort zone and explore other options.
What handbag designer(s) do you like?
I like various designers, I like anything that functionable and durable, Chic and has quality. I also like a few vintage pieces.
How were you able combine both functionality and fashion?
I include the necessities and make them stylish.
Any ambitions to do a fashion line?
Clothing? Not now, but I have to say not now but never say never. Now I'm definitely enjoying the accessories part.
What is your opinion on the limited use of black models in the fashion industry?
If any feild that should embrace culture should be the fashion industry.
In your opinion what needs to happen to include all races equally?
Together we need to make changes in different areas such as, the agencies, the make up artist and models. We all need to take on our responsibilities.
For more on Alek Wek, featured as the "Future" in Fashion, check out BlackVoices.com Black History Month Fashion Gallery.
1. Wow! Check Out Her Website: http://www.alekwek1933.com/ Those Bags Are Awesome!
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JC at 11:11PM on Feb 2nd 2008