Handbag designer Nica’s range is stocked in Urban Outfitters and John Lewis to name but a few. She tells marmaLADYa.com what she loves about London and accessories
Tell us a little about your background. How did you get into handbag design?
I’ve had lots and lots of experience in the art and creative sectors, from fine art to graphic design and even set design, working in the theatre and film sectors. I continually want to do something new and creative but many of the things I did previously were more about private and personal expression. They tended to be only visual and didn’t engage all the senses, and I always wanted to give something more than just visuals. So I moved slowly towards a more public form of expression. Eventually I went into fashion which led to handbag design.
Where did your obsession with handbags begin?
From as long as I can remember, even as a little girl, I’ve enjoyed playing around with accessories. As part of my course I was drawn to the accessories side, in particular, handbags! I loved working with them and coming up with new prints and ideas.
What were the main challenges you faced setting up business in the UK?
Because I grew up in Asia, my experiences were different to those of many UK handbag designers. To keep ahead of trends, I continually look at people in the street, seeing what they like or don’t like and what’s on offer to them.
How do you find living and working in London?
It’s very different! We all know London’s problems, like trying to get into work using public transport – I hate it! On the other hand, I love the cultural environments, the museums, the markets and the lovely old and unique shops.
Do you find London inspiring?
I spend my time in different areas of London. It’s good that you could be walking in one area of London like Canary Wharf where everything is new and shiny and then move to another area which is steeped in history which brings so much inspiration. Such diversity means each area has a different ethos, community and spirit, which is inspiring.
What is it about bags that women love?
I can’t speak for all women but I love bags that have something to say, yet are also functional. Making a visual difference is very important to me so anything that looks unique would appeal to me.
What are you favourite designs in your current collection?
There’s a new bag called Tiger, which is part of the Nica autumn winter season. I love its slouch look, a big trend at the moment, and it has some hand craft detail on the panel which is really cute! Its slouchy look makes it easy to wear and it carries a lot of stuff which is always important!
Where is it possible to buy your designs?
You can now buy them on our website www.bynica.com but also in many small boutiques and selected department stores such as John Lewis and Urban Outfitters. They’re also available internationally which is great.
What have you got planned business-wise for this year?
We’re planning to do a Nica gift collection. At the moment we’re looking at jewellery, compacts and purses and we’ll also be launching a Nica luggage range – travel bags covered in the Nica prints, so it’s all very exciting!
What shapes and colours are going to be big this spring/summer for bags?
Like last year oversized bags will still be very popular especially in lovely, bright summery colours. There is a gorgeous bag in the summer collection called the Karma, its oversized and has a great blue and yellow print – very sixties!
If you weren't designing handbags, what do you think you would be doing?
Hmm it would have to be something creative like ceramics, or a similar craft, I’ve always thought a Nica Ikea could be an exciting possibility!
Visit www.bynica.com to see Nica’s designs.
