Considering this crucial time in the fashion industry and the economy thousands and probably even millions of young up and coming designers are hustling to get a foot in the door so that their pieces can be featured in big magazine spreads, Fashion week and on socialites and notables from all over the globe. Laquan is optimistic that things will work out in his favor. His hard-work, professionalism, strong sense of creative direction and eclectic vision will without a doubt introduce him to the masses. When you witness his pieces it’s hard to believe why he hasn’t been fully introduced to the fashion sphere but it’s okay lovelies cause Clutch like always puts everybody on to what’s NEXT. We got a chance to pick that interesting brain of his….

Clutch: You add such great whimsical flair to your pieces. Where does that inspiration come from?
LaQueue: A lot of my inspiration comes from my everyday life living in New York City. In the world of LaQueue, its perfectly natural for a woman to enter the night life after a chic minute of grocery shopping, while storming in her 6 inch Louboutin’s. Most people would say, “that’s not realistic”. However, I’ve always believed in dressing for the image and not the occasion!

Clutch: Has there been a designer/s that inspired you to design, perfect your craft and be so unique?
LaQueue: Designers that inspire me most are Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga and Miuccia Prada for Miu Miu. I think they are outstanding!!! When viewing their collections/ look books, it inspires me to create imagination/alter-egos within the garments that I construct.

Clutch: Who are your muses? (a celebrity, model, friend, art, culture, lifestyle, etc)?
LaQueue: Honestly, I haven’t found her as of yet —- (call me crazy), but the only muse that I’ve ever had is inside me (imagination). Her name is Queens, she’s 21, African American, 6′0 feet, extremely thin and has a complexion that is fairly brown. When designing, I design according to Queens emotions, lifestyle and adventures.

Clutch: Who is the LaQueue woman?
LaQueue: The LaQueue woman is definitely fab! she’s a refined woman that has influence, poise and the power within the image she provides.

Clutch: I see that Jaslene from America’s Next Top Model and Aubrey O’Day are fans, what other notables have worn your pieces so far? Who would be your ideal client to design for?
LaQueue: Well, the amazing fashion socialite Andre. J who graced the cover of Paris Vogue (Nov 07 issues) was also spotted in a LaQueue. He’s so sweet, he would be ideal!

Clutch: Most up and coming designers are often encouraged to study with an established designer before they make their mark. Are you an apprentice for any designer or do you choose to do it on your own?
LaQueue: Currently I’ve been interning for BlackBook Magazine — assisting the fashion Director Elizabeth Sulcer. Aside from interning, I try to build clientèle however that doesn’t always happen when you’re a self-supported designer like myself.

Clutch: What can we expect from you in the near future?
LaQueue: Well, you can definitely expect more celebs/ fashion socialites spotted in my pieces. Expect to see me during N.Y fashion week someday. Over all, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected. I really don’t know what God has in store, but in due time.

For more information on LaQueue please visit www.myspace.com/laqueuefashions88

Then there are other times when less is more, platforms aren’t always the sexiest shoes on the self. Too much chunk, the wrong fabric choice, horrific hardware, or even the wrong color combo can quickly turn any shoe from chic to cheap. That’s why I love Jeffery Campbell, with his line there are no mishaps just missbehavin.

WHO is Jeffrey Campbell, he’s a renowned shoe designer based in LA, who with help the help of his wife Christine has created a following of “JC Girls” across the globe.

WHAT is Jeffrey Campbell Footwear, think retro but trendy. “Each season the collection grows–offering Jeffrey’s spin on the hottest trends, and his updates to vintage classics of yesteryear” says JC. And who doesn’t like vintage. Honestly, to say that you don’t would be to stay you don’t like fashion, because its constantly recycles itself. Bringing together what was with what is! What inspires him, the cities of London and Brooklyn, Mary-Kate O., after parties, short-shorts and most importantly his daughters.

WHERE can you find Jeffrey Campbell, pick a spot on the map and point. No he’s really everywhere; Mostly found in cute boutiques, he could also be found in department store like Nordstorm or online shoe havens. Currently he retails in Illinois, Boston, Milwaukee, Texas, South Carolina, Vermont, Maryland, Florida, Canada, LA, Brooklyn and many more cities.

WHY Jeffrey Campbell, because he’s inspired by real things and real people which means YOU, ME, WE inspire him. And inspiration is where real fashion and style start.

To find Jeffrey Campbell retailers in your area please visit www.jeffreycampbellshoes.com.

With inspiration stemming from fabrics to Frank Sinatra and a love for Hedi Slimane and Marc Jacobs, the Florida A&M student is ready to take on the industry with an innovative and well rounded zeal.

“I love high fashion but, I try to create instead of emulate.” he says.

And create he has! Attributing his successes to “pray and research”, Leon has surely learned early on the challenges young designers face when looking for their big break in the industry. Steadfastly managing the business demands of his growing brand, he’s consistently wowed us with each new collection. Flirty, futuristic and exciting, his playgirl contemporary party dresses rouses the bad girl in us all! A refreshing discovery, Leon Curry is a frontrunner for the next generation of fashion leaders.

From photo shoots in New York with renowned Vogue photographers to fashion fiery celebs such as Aubrey O’Day already clamoring over the young talent, Leon Curry is definitely one to watch. “The Ellie Owen woman is the embodiment, better yet, epitome of phenomenal. The E.O. woman is unafraid.”

For more information on Leon Curry and Ellie Owen please visit www.myspace.com/ldc86

Q: So Alexis, you did your first ever runway show, the debut of the Ghita line, last September. What was that experience like?
It was my first fashion show, but I wasn’t nervous. I felt like I put forth a really good effort for what I had to work with. I just rolled with it and it was really fun and exciting working with Mark Seliger. I thought that was a huge honor for the first time around, so I’m just looking forward to having more shows and getting better and better.

Q: You seem to have a very strong design point of view. Would you say that Ghita is a reflection of your personal style or who do you imagine wearing your clothing?
Well, for right now most of my influences are my friends. Most of my friends are either stylists or designers who are involved with fashion in some way. A lot of pieces in my collection are made with a specific person in mind, but we all have individual styles so I just try to make clothing that will compliment everyone’s figure and try to get a different point of view other than just what I like—even though I ultimately end up liking everything that I make.

Q: What are you currently inspired by?
I just finished Fall ‘08 so now I’m working on having another fashion show in September for spring; the way fashion is right now there are so many different things going on. There’s a rock influence, there’s a religious influence, there’s a hippie influence. So that’s what I’m going to incorporate for spring next season, these mini collections that pick up on all of the different trends.

Q: You attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in L.A. and now you’ve started your own line. We always see photos of you at all the major fashion the shows. Is it safe to say that fashion has always been something that you’ve loved?
Yes, I’ve always loved it and it’s been the only thing that I’ve ever wanted to do. I was lucky enough to make it happen.

Q: Since you are known for being so stylish, do you feel any additional pressure in your role as a designer? Do you feel like people expect more from you and do you welcome that challenge?Yeah, I welcome the challenge, but I don’t put too much pressure on myself. I continue to wear what I like, wear what’s flattering and have fun while doing it. If I put too much pressure on myself then it becomes not fun anymore. I just like to have fun with it and be experimental and not be afraid to make mistakes.

Q: We of course love your personal style and you always seem to be so effortlessly put together. One of our readers described your style as “immaculate”. Can you share a bit about your favorite designers and shopping destinations?
Awwww. Oh yeah! Well, my favorite designer is Ricardo Tisci, he’s a designer for Givenchy. I love Nicolas Ghesquiere, he’s a designer for Balenciaga and I love Alber Elbaz, he’s a designer for Lanvin. Those are my favorite designers right now. I’m just so impressed with how focused their designs are and how much effort goes into it. As far as shopping, I’ll usually hit up stores like H&M and Zara. I think it’s really important to have nice shoes, so I like to splurge on shoes and handbags. Neiman Marcus in one of my favorite stores. I love Balmaine and Colette in Paris.

Q: What are a few of your fashion and beauty must haves? What are things that you don’t like to leave the house without?
A great fitting pair of jeans. I’m aways cold, so I like to keep a scarf with me which is cool because scarves are in right now. Lipgloss and water are also good things to have on hand.

Q: It seems like you have a lot going on in your office today. So what is a typical day like for you? Or is there any such thing as a typical day?
It’s always different, but my day generally involves coming in checking on our accounts to make sure that our shipments are out, make sure that we’re getting paid, working on sourcing new fabrics daily while running back and forth to the grader and patternmaker. Those things generally remain the same everyday.

Q: What is your ultimate goal for the line? Do you plan on expanding into other product categories? What can we expect from Ghita for upcoming seasons?
Well, starting with spring ‘09 I’m expanding to jumpsuits, shorts and pants for more of a full line as opposed to a dress line. I think the dress line was a good way to start and get recognition because a lot of people don’t just have a dress line. Also, being an influential designer is a major goal.

Q: So when you’re not busy designing what are some of the things you like to do?
I love the Food Network. I’m always watching the Food Network, but that’s a whole separate thing! I think that could be my next career, to be a Chef. I like to spend time with my son and the people I love. I like to go to the movies, go the beach, ride bikes . . . that kind of stuff.

Q: You seem to have a really good balance within all of the different aspects of your life. How have you managed to achieve that?
You know, you just have to take it one day and situation at a time. You have to devote as much time to something when you’re in that moment and don’t worry about the rest. Try not to get tired and discouraged and maintain a positive attitude. That’s really important.

Q: Ok. One last question, so you’re headed out for a night on the town with the girls or whomever, what’s in your fabulous Clutch? Hmm. Great lipgloss and my I.D.

For more information on Alexis and Ghita please visit www. ghitafashion.com

Q: When did you realize that there was a market for Cubannie Links?
Back in ‘06 when I was pretty tired of my job to be honest! I was working at Rocawear but didn’t feel like I was doing anything important. I always had a great sense of accessories and just let my passion lead me to my niche.

Q: We hear you worked for a fashion company prior to starting Cubannie Links. What compelled you to get into jewelry design first as opposed to fashion design?
Before ever working in the fashion industry I was a full time cocktail waitress at clubs. I was in the acting game in the daytime. Acting was my number one for a long time but definitely wasn’t paying the bills with that. I used to love making “stuff”, anything. Hand-sewed bags, tops…just super creative. Then I got into the fashion game and realized that to be a “designer” in certain markets (let’s say, wink) means your creative input is not utilized and basically you’re just filling the blanks that exec’s are requesting for the line. I thought designing sucked. I was never interested from that point on. So owning my own collection was ideal. I think I talk about this way too much but this is the truth. I could not envision raising a family and keeping a marriage, working for someone else 50 hours a week and maintaining a fulfilling life. Now I’m not married or have children, I just could imagine what it would feel like, it was a nightmare. I was already pretty miserable coming home at 8pm, going to sleep, my whole concept of a personal life was hard to imagine. So all these little things kept adding up and I slowing realized what would be an ideal situation. NOT WORKING FOR AN EMPLOYER.

Q: Was this you’re first try at designing jewelry?
This was my first go. Since July ‘07 it’s been Cubannie Links, Cubannie Links. But as long as I remember I was always making something, I picked that up from my mom. It’s just that I never actually made jewelry.

Q: What are some of the noticeable improvements you see in your craftsmanship since you’ve started until now?
Although I am a lower price point collection I am keen to the cons of basic metals, so I try to implement other finer metals to play with the longevity. I have definitely upgraded a lot of materials to give that fashion jewelry price range an extra spark.

Q: What types of influences play a role in developing your collections?
Fortunately and unfortunately I try not to follow obvious trends. I try not to scout competitor’s collections. I try to create what looks appealing to me, and somehow it works in my favor. I’m not a big trends seeker for upcoming seasons: color palettes all that high fashion jargon. If you like the damn thing you’re going to wear it! Some influences that do play a roll is the urban street culture and lifestyle. I’m a lifestyle, not a trend. On the other hand, I have used my jewelry collection as an outlet to stay in touch with my culture. Cuba has mad flavor. My mission is to find those classic pieces, colors, textures and translate it into my collection, somehow blending two cultures.

Q: We know you’re doing well because your pieces are always selling out! But, as a one woman show how difficult is it for you to keep the production line going and still handle the other important demands of a growing business?
Production definitely increased in the past six months and it’s very exciting. The main reason I wanted my own business was because if I was going to work overtime, or 12-hour workdays, the pay off would be greater and more satisfying to my soul. It doesn’t bother me to work weekends and until 3am. I love jewelry, I love the excitement and the rush people get from it or when stores receive their merchandise and just go bananas, ahhh what a feeling. I couldn’t get that feeling at any other company but my own.

In due time all of those more business issues will fall in place and become easier. I am a first time owner so there are a million things I still need to learn. But I dive in head first and will eventually “Get it.” All I want to do is make jewelry. But I make jewelry and I do sales, and I ship and I’m customer service and I’m PR, you get it!

Q: From hipster to Hollywood, Cubannie Links has a very diverse following. What design elements have you discovered works for both types of customers?
Yeah, that is something that amazes me too! As I am sure you gathered I didn’t graduate from a Parsons or FIT. I just am doing what I love. Jewelry is like candy to me, an obvious metaphor, but I think if it’s yummy to me, I know other people are going to love it! It is amazing how my collection transcends through so many different types of women. The amazing thing I have realized is women love big jewelry (that’s not the epiphany), but women can’t wear big jewelry every day, as I am sure they wish they could. Cubannie Links offers large, yet light – weight pieces that are kind to earlobes that managed to survive the “door-knocker” era, which I love by the way. CL provides a balanced marriage between high fashion street and sophisticated.

Q: When did your celebrity customers start pouring in? Were you surprised by the response your pieces were getting?
Rihanna was my very first celeb in May 2007. Read the blog post about the event leading to that pivotal moment. This whole celebrity thing really took off from there because I knew it would come to that one day, just not that early in my green years. So as my goals were being accomplished I set new goals, harder to reach goals, and realized anything is possible so reach for the stars…in both sense of the word. I can’t take all of the credit either, stylist play a major role in making Cubannie Links such a success, especially my boyfriend who styles for a huge Hip-Hop Magazine, he gave me my first break in the industry. If a stylist isn’t feeling your stuff, then chances are they aren’t going to use it. Luckily my collection holds its own in a world of fabulous jewelry. This means CL has something special and the price ticket doesn’t need to have five zeros to look appealing to celebs or people with paper. It’s an amazing surprise to know celebs who can afford finer pieces choose CL.

Q: 2007 was a major success year for Cubannie Links. What exciting accomplishments have you had so far in 2008?
2008 has been treating me well. The most exciting has been being apart of karmaloop.com online boutique. They are a lifestyle boutique and an amazing thing to be apart of. They have such a big name in the trendy street wear and have the fresh of the fresh. They welcomed my independent collection with open arms!

Q: Looking ahead what are some other creative areas do you see yourself delving into in the future?
I definitely want to start a finer jewelry collection using real gold and white golds. It will be a higher price point collection, designing one of a kind pieces. Similar flare that Cubannie Links already offers just on a higher scale. On another creative note, I want to continue to pursue my acting career once Cubannie Links is settled down and grows a bit more.

Q: What is the most important piece of advice you would give to an aspiring jewelry designer trying to break onto the scene?
The main thing that has helped me is positive people around you that want to see you succeed, a vision and focus. You don’t have to know everything to get started; it will come if you’re determined to make it happen. Don’t be afraid of failing. My future husband told me wise words this New years day (1/1/08), he said, “If the old way isn’t working, you have to find a new way.” I was pretty overwhelmed and lost a little bit of encouragement. Oddly enough, soon after, he got the infamous Rev Run email that somehow makes its way around and it was pretty enlightening:

“Good morning, The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flats called Jobs. But, if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, insurance called Faith, a driver called Jesus, you will make it to a place called Success. “

For more information about Cubannie Links please visit www.cubannielinks.com

Q: How did you get your start designing handbags?
I started making handbags in 2005 while living in Philly. I had just receivedd a sewing machine from my parents and decided to play around and try to make a bag. To my surprise, it came out rather cute. After wearing it myself and getting a few compliments, I decided to make a few more and try to sell them. I ended up selling them all in one weekend and that’s when I officially started my business!

Most recently, due to some trademarking issues, I actually ended up changing my line name from Nneka Hurley Handbags to Nneka Saran Handbags.

Q: Your bags have a very fashion-forward aesthetic that can definitely make a “look”. How important do you feel a bag is to accentuating an ensemble? I think accessories can totally add to a look! I think bags and shoes are especially important when looking to accentuate an ensemble. People’s eyes are generally drawn to those two things first. So — a woman could have on a very basic outfit with a fly and unique handbag and that can completely tie it all together.

Q: What are you inspired by at the moment? Is there a design philosophy that you ascribe to?
Life inspires me. Everything around me gives me inspiration—people, nature, the weather, fashion. My design philosophy is sticking to clean lines, funky prints, and pieces that make a statement.

Q: What kind of details do you put emphasis on when you’re designing?
My bag silhouettes are pretty basic, so I put emphasis on everything from the fabric selections to the hardware used to the smallest of details like the color thread I use on each bag.

Q: How would you describe your personal style? What look would we normally find you rockin’?
I would describe my personal style as a mix of urban chic … a little funky sometimes… a little classic at times. I love switching up my look. You can find me rockin anything from a pair of jeans and t-shirt with one of my oversized hobo bags to a cute flirty dress with one of my oversized clutches. I absolutely love wearing dresses especially in the spring/summer. And I love accessories… bracelets, earrings, necklaces, sunglasses…so I always have them on!

Q: We love that your bags are super stylish yet ideal for the modern day fashionista on the go. What kind of woman do you envision carrying off your designs? I design bags for the kind of woman who appreciates being unique, fashionable, and a bit edgy. My bags are for the woman who likes to stand out a little….and be an individual.

Q: Is there a certain style(s) that your customers are drawn to? The most popular style is the fold over clutch. People really seem to like the size and design of it.

Q: For ladies who may be in the market for a new bag for summer, why should they consider adding a Nneka Hurley creation to their collection? When I think of the summer, I think of bright, bold colors…. I think of pieces that make me happy…. I want a bag I can walk down the street wearing and catch a glimpse of my reflection in a mirror and feel proud and excited to have it on. I believe my bags can add that feeling to any woman!

Q: We’ve spotted your bags in the hands of celebs like Eve, Keyshia Cole, and Bre from ANTM, where will we be seeing your work next?
There is no telling who you may see next with one of my bags! But definitely be on the lookout because there will be some more celeb spottings soon! In the near future, I am planning to extend my line to leather goods and funky baby bags. So, I’m very excited about that!

Q: Okay, Nneka. If we were to look into your purse right now, what would we find?
If you were to look in my purse right now you would find my mini New Testament Bible, makeup bag (full of MAC & Victoria Secret lip glosses), sunglasses, wallet, tape measure, gum, my phones, & camera. (never know when there will be a photo opportunity!) lol

To find more info on Nneka Saran Handbags visit www.nnekahurley.com and www.myspace.com/bagsbynneka

If you’re in NYC on June 8th be sure to stop by the Moca Bar to shop for a little arm candy! Nneka will be showcasing her spankin’ new Summer ‘08 bag collection. Check the info below for event details:

Moca Bar & Lounge
2210 Frederick Douglass Blvd (on the corner of 119th Street), New York, NY 10026
When: Sunday, June 8, 3:00P.M. to 7:00P.M.
Phone: 917.676.3940
www.mocabar.com

Q: Your slogan reads “Streetwear designed for the new millennium.” Can you elaborate on what that idea means?
Actually that was the slogan years ago when the line was much more “streety.” It was very much inspired by the whole electronic music scene, and I haven’t been able to figure out how to change that slogan on the web search engine!

Q: Your bio shares a rather interesting story. You were studying biology, and then you took a part-time job as a receptionist at a design school, began taking classes and then started your own line. What made you decide to make the transition and commit to fashion full-time? Did you have any interest in fashion prior to working at the design college?
Coming from a Chinese background, going to school for anything artsy was definitely not going to happen. If it weren’t for the part-time job, I never would’ve even considered fashion school. Yes, I was always into fashion from a young age and had just learned to sew and was making my own clothes right before I got the job, but I always thought science was my career path. I don’t always believe in “fate”, but if there was ever a time where the stars aligned, it was the free fashion tuition at that point in my life

At one point I was going to two schools, working two part-time jobs and throwing myself into every fashion event I could.

I finally decided to make the transition to full time fashion after taking part in several local fashion shows and actually having stores come up and ask where they could buy my designs. I realized that there was a market for what I was doing and just went for it.

Q: Is there any special significance behind the name House of Spy?
Back when I started the line, during the whole electronic music rage, I had wanted to call it Spy clothing, but after a search I realized that there were TONS of lines called Spy. Calling it House of Spy was a bit of a play on words, it was obviously a small, indie line catering to a niche market, but named after the big Houses like House of Chanel and House of Dior.

Q: Who’s the ideal House of Spy woman? Or what kind of woman do you imagine wearing your clothes?
The ideal woman is a stylish and hip young or young at heart woman. She effortlessly mixes new with old, high and low and isn’t afraid to make a statement.

Q: We love your quirky aesthetic. What are you currently inspired by?
Oh geez, inspiration always changes but like most designers, I’ve got a thing for vintage and that has always inspired me. The ladylike details of the 20s, the wild colors and patterns of the 60s and 70s and just the general attention to detail and construction from the past.

I’m currently heading to Buenos Aires, where I’ll be working on my new spring 09 collection, I have a feeling it could have a latin flavor to it.

Q: Your clothes have names like “Butter Biscuit” and “Ms. Pacman.” What’s the story behind the names?
Every season I usually work with a theme. Last fall’s theme was “English Tea Party” hence all the names had references to that, like Butter Biscuit. I like to have fun when I do things so you’ll also see coats from that season named Posh and Becks!

Q: How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is hard to pin down. I obviously wear a ton of my own designs, mixed in with a liberal amount of vintage and a little bit of new. I like to switch it up but if I have to be pegged down it would be a hybrid of edgy/sexy/feminine/playful, just like House of Spy!

Q: Tell us about a few of your favorite items from your spring/summer collection?
Some of my faves are the Gabby, strapless bubble dress in purple, the Sateen jumpsuit and the Cadet bomber. I’ve been rocking them all already!

Q: Can you share any future plans for House of Spy? Is there anything you’d like our readers to know about yourself or the line?
Well, House of Spy just recently started a secondary knitwear line called Beatrice Holloway by House of Spy. It’s a really sweet and feminine tops and dresses line offered at a bit of a lower price point. I’ve also been thinking about moving into the accessories market but no immediate future plans as yet. Expansion into Asia and Europe are top on our list for target markets, probably next season I’m sure!

For more information on House of Spy please visit www.houseofspy.com and www.shophouseofspy.com

Her most recent shoe collection makes use of hand selected Japanese Kimono fabrics, each representing a special meaning through color or design. Undeniably distinctive, Henrietta’s design aesthetic definitely makes a colorful statement and that’s exactly what fans of the brand have come to appreciate.

The designer offers custom made options in a range of styles and fabrics that are sure to rescue your feet from a life of boredom. Want to get your own Hetty Rose creation? It will take about 6 weeks for Henrietta to work her magic and have your little works of art at your doorstep.

To find stockists or to view the the collection visit www.hettyrose.co.uk

Fashion Brief Q&A’s — Introducing you to new and emerging talent in fashion and accessories.
Brand: Yorktown Road
Designer: Carol

Q: When did you decide you wanted to start the Yorktown Road Collection?
Yorktown Road is inspired by a wonderful street in the community where I live, just outside of San Francisco. Mid-century architecture set in an area of raw untamed trees, brush and hills. The homes are simple in form, not fancy at all, and have great interest without bringing in a lot of different elements. That concept is really what led to developing Yorktown Road. Using simple forms and usually just one base textile to create something beautiful and interesting.

“Yorktown Road” is currently producing a line of modern accessories for women, children and the home.

Q: Who are the Yorktown Road customers? And why do they love your items?
Yorktown Road has an international client base with a variety of backgrounds from students, artists, architects and moms. The product really crosses the line between formal and informal, which allows the individual to interpret how it should be used or where it can be worn.

Although I do have some standard styles that I carry through each season, the colors from individual collections and seasonal styles are produced in very limited quantities. Many of my customers really like to feel they have an item that they aren’t going to see all over town or at a special event they are attending. In fact, I often receive requests for items that will not be reproduced.

Q: Shoppers are always so impressed by the craftsmanship of Yorktown Road pieces, what would you say adds that extra something special to how your pieces are put together? What are your special touches?
A lot of care is put into each bag I create. Although I do sew each piece, most of my time is spent preparing the fabrics and fussing over the finished product before I send it out into the world.

I hand-dye most of my colored linens, and do so in very small batches to bring out the most intense result possible. The fabric for each bag is textured individually to enhance its existing character. I never try to force a bag to be a specific dimension or shape. Instead, if it’s a natural fiber and wants to twist a little, I’ll let it twist or curve or do its thing. I work with the fabric, not against it and I think the end result is so much more fun and interesting.

Q: What are your favorite pieces? For lazing around the house, a night on the town, a gift for a friend…?
Favorite pieces? If I have a lot to carry but still want to look really bold and sophisticated, I wear the “supply sack” in either black nylon or leather. It’s a big bag with a strong shape. I’ve had many customers come back to get this one in different colors.

The textured linen totes and slim zips are perfect for gift giving. They come in a variety of colors and are perfect for daily use.

The “rolled leather tote” is like “the perfect pair of jeans.” At least that’s what one of my customers says. I agree. Simply shaped, a bit rumpled, perfect to use day or night. The leather for this bag usually comes from re-purposed coats or upholstery pieces so it has lots of character.

The “silk lined mini-zips” and “thick & thin zips” are ideal for a night out or even as a beautiful zip to slip in your bag everyday. They aren’t super stiff like a lot of clutch bags. Instead they retain the soft movement that is natural to linen.

Q: Where can Clutchette’s find Yorktown Road products?
Yorktown Road has an etsy shop that opened in November 2007. www.yorktownroad.etsy.com and a new website is in the works! www.yorktownroad.com

I do sell in a variety of small shops and galleries around the United States. Two of my newest shops are “Modela” in Iowa City, IA and “Alchemy” in Richmond, VA. Visit them if you are in the area!

Many customers also keep an eye on my flickr stream, also named Yorktown Road, so they can see when new designs are in the works. I always welcome emails so if anyone would like more information or know how to find a specific bag, just ask!

Anyone who thinks that Alexis Phifer merely serves as Kanye West’s arm candy should take a closer look. Turns out that Ms. Phifer, who attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, may have been doing more than just sitting pretty at the couple’s recent appearances at the fall fashion shows. Perhaps she was looking for inspiration-designer inspiration that is.

Filled with frocks that appear to be light as air Phifer’s clothing line, Ghita, made its official debut during New York’s spring fashion week late last year. Her creative use of proportion and fit, a sorbet-neon color palette and intricate details like paneling and ruching result in an eye catching femme fatale aesthetic that’s just what a girl needs to maintain her sophisticated cool during the warmer months to come. We’re clearly fans of her work and delighted to know that the woman who’s engaged to an entertainer with a world famous swagger has a little swagger of her own.

To learn more about Ghita or to view past collections visit www.ghitafashion.com