Usually I let the materials that I am upcycling guide my designs. I dismantle the treasured item, see what it has to offer, and start designing from there. But I suppose a good bit of internal design sense comes through too as I envision what I can do and what the end result should be. I rarely try to imitate a designer's look, or another bag, or try to make something that is "in style," but rather I focus on the overall usability of the bag and of course its general "look." I try to design functional, yet classic, designs that look cool, but will also be used for years to come.
But I have to assume that I am influenced by things that I see out there (magazines, the internet, TV, real life). My ideas don't come out of nowhere! And I recently realized that I find myself tending towards Chanel's designs - both vintage and current.
I love the classic, classy and relaxed look. Right up my alley.
And - oh, to have those pearls some day!
I also like Coco's attitude and advice on being a stylish woman:
And then I recently watched the movie "Coco Before Chanel," and really got on board with the whole Coco thing! And you KNOW I loved her design house in Paris - ahhh - a designer's dream come true!
And sometimes I think without realizing it I am incorporating some of Chanel's iconic style into some of my designs (classic lines, simplicity, etc.).
But this week I had Coco Chanel on my mind, and when I saw a luscious pair of outdated black lambskin pants next to a few pieces of gray-white suede in my studio I set out to craft my own Chanel-inspired tote, which I am now calling:
The Uptown Coco Tote. Here's to you, Coco Chanel!
www.uptownredesigns.com
Upcycled Bags Handmade in New Orleans
No comments:
Post a Comment