Donna, Lulu, Kate, Amber. No, these are not the latest batch of Top Models, they are some of the bag lines from the incredibly talented Katherine Kwei. A former PR executive, Katherine decided to pursue her dream of designing handbags in 2002. Graduating from the London College of Fashion, Katherine worked with Susan Hunter and Billy Bag Company during her studies. In 2006, she worked with Zac Posen on his Spring/Summer line and launched her line in 2007.
That 2007 collection caught my attention and I fell in love with her Donna line. I still love that style, but she has developed so many other unique styles utilizing her Chinese knot technique, there’s essentially a bag for every fashion type out there! Whether you love glam rock or are a sensible and ultra-fashionable executive, you will find something to treasure!
The Spring/Summer 2011 collection pays tribute to the music of the psychedelic ’60s to the ’80s disco scene and that vibrant, playful, stylish woman who everyone notices in the scene and everyone wants to be with one day. The new colors and styles will make it hard for you to choose, but so much fun exploring the possibilities!
Following the convertible trend, the Donna line adds a new, large hobo with a detachable, adjustable strap. In the snake version, beautiful and sophisticated grey/gold and a leopard print are stunning and versatile. The hand-dyed lambskin with watersnake versions features a rich chocolate, black and metallic. The Donna Batik line features brilliantly shaded turquoise and tangerine options. All of which are available in the six Donna styles.
In 1998, one of the most well known designer handbag brands came into light “Kooba”. Celebrities and even fashionista’s world wide can be seen carrying different designs from the brand on a daily basis. It’s remarkable to see that the brand started just 12 years ago and has already risen to the top.
Abbe Held, who is the creative director of Kooba, and her Mother were avid handbag shoppers that were on a mission to make their own handbag line. Not just any type of handbags though, ones that had a more vintage and organic look than what was already out there.
“The first creations of Kooba were a lot more structured”, said Ms. Held. Handbags were made in ultra suede, mens flannel material and were not made of leather. At first, the handbags were sold to Bergdorf Goodman and Scoop in New York City. Now, Kooba can be found in a variety of stores and online.
The first bag that really put Kooba on the map was the “Sienna”. “We received a lot of recognition from that bag”, said Abbe. Being that Ms. Held is the creative director for Kooba it comes as no surprise that she loves the long hobo’s the brand has to offer. She prefers bags that are hands free, and the “Bryce” is one of her favorites.
It’s not the handbag, but the woman who carries it… that is Kooba’s philosophy! Since 1998, Kooba has been helping women of all ages and walks of life express their own individual styles. The brand is known for its original styles, distinctive textures, and attention to detail. And as a handbag lover, I can tell you those are all very good things! I guess it’s no wonder then that I am finding myself quite excited for Kooba’s Holiday 2010 Collection!
The holiday season is definitely a time to feel glamorous and sexy! Why not let Kooba add some festivity to your look? The Holiday 2010 Collection has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for some sequins or you’re looking for a yummy leather with a subtle sheen, Kooba has a style that will let you shine! My personal favorite so far? The Brielle Clutch! I love the fun sequins and, of course, the detachable shoulder strap! It is one of several lovely pieces from this collection that are now available on Kooba’s Official Website, with more styles to be released later this month (November 15th)! I am especially excited for the arrival of the Malia Tote in a color called Prism! So pretty!
The Work Bag:
The Beach Tote:
The Weekend Bag:
The Evening Clutch:
