Last night I had the privilege of attending the Katherine Kwei Spring/Summer ‘11 Preview. I was familiar with Kwei’s bags through the Tumblr world and started following her Tumblr and Twitter and after seeing her bags rightfully placed at Saks, I knew I had to attend to learn more about the designer, her new collection and how she’s used social media to build her brand.
I spoke to Kwei specifically about how a designer goes from the drawing board to manufacturing and production. Kwei says she takes her inspiration from an ode to music to Rock & Roll and Bali where the designer got married. Leather is Kwei’s specialty and she uses colors and textures in a way that “catches her fancy.” Continuing with this, Kwei offered a DYI lesson in traditional Chinese knot tying—something that is very apparent and adds a playful wow factor to her leather bags.
When asked, “What is your favorite bag?” Kwei immediately picked the ‘Lulu’ (picture in the photo set above) which retails for $710. There’s a knot weave on the shoulder strap and 2 zipper pockets that allows for maximum storage.
For those of you who are unfamiliar, the collection is targeted towards women who have a sense of style but who are conscious shoppers and are aware of price points. Kwei says she made her handbags friendly to everyone: there’s is your basic everyday leather bag to something a little more more extravagant—snakeskin. Something accessible for everyone.
Speaking of accessible, I heard of Katherine Kwei bags through the Internet and as a “social media junkie” myself, I wanted her to share her thoughts on how using Twitter and Tumblr and posting videos have helped her brand her company. Kwei said, “It’s very fun to communicate with not only my friends but my customers… I’m not going to be posting what I eat, but it’s nice to get feedback from people. … It’s not only a one way street.”
After looking and playing with the S/S ‘11 collection, I can easily say, if you want a bag that’s unique and not over-hyped and outplayed everywhere in the media, you’ve got to check out these Katherine Kwei. They’re made for the women who are on the go, want something sturdy, and can easily transition from work to play.
Special thanks to Bianca and Mallory of Small Girls Big Biz for pulling together a great event! And Nicky Digital who had a sweet photo booth set up! Also, it was finally nice to meet Sara and reader Caryle who I’m basically obsessed with.
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