By Francesca Claybrook
We have a new designer to highlight this week – Jess Rizzuti, an amazingly talented handbag designer based in New York. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology, Jess launched her handbag line in 2008. This season, the line includes an eco-friendly bag (pictured here) made with sustainable materials. Here’s more information on the designer in her own words:
BVS: What led you into fashion? How did you get started?
I remember loving fashion and accessories at a very young age, and ever since then it has been a source of inspiration. In college I majored in Textiles, which then led me to pursue a business in fashion.
BVS: What do you draw inspiration from?
Inspiration comes from a variety of things and seems to reflect my surroundings. I’m intrigued by architecture, travel, and nature while I also like drawing inspiration for color by the use of it in paintings.
BVS: Who are your five favorite designers?
Diane von Furstenberg, Nanette Lepore, Stella McCartney, Tracy Reese, and Valentino.
BVS: What are the six pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?
A little black dress, statement necklace, skinny jeans, printed silk top, DVF wrap dress, and a leather jacket.
BVS: Which celebrity’s style do you admire the most?
Sienna Miller. She has a great sense of style.
BVS: What trends do you think will be big this summer?
I’m thinking we’ll see lots of color, prints, florals, embellished details, and eco-friendly fabrics.
BVS: What makes your line different from other designers?
My work really reflects my textile background in the pairing of materials and textures. I like to be hands on and have things custom died, embossed, and really personalize my materials. I also like to emphasize the interior where I always use colors and prints that compliment the exterior. To me, it’s important that the inside of the bag be as beautiful as the outside.
BVS: What has been the best or most surreal part of being a designer?
The most surreal thing was to see my bags on NBC last week. It was definitely a cool moment for me.
BVS: I’m interested in the sustainable handbag you’ve created – what made you decide to use sustainable materials in your work? Will this be something we’ll see more of from you in the future?
Designing a sustainable bag came naturally for me this season as I think it’s important that we realize the impact we have on our planet and try to do something positive about it. For the future I plan to continue to explore eco-friendly materials that I’ve found to be innovative and original.
BVS: Do you have any plans to branch out from handbags into other areas?
Someday I hope to have my brand expand to include shoes, luggage, men’s leather goods, and apparel. I’m always thinking about new ideas and what to do next. But for now, it’s one thing at a time.
Thanks to Jess for participating! Want to see more from this talented designer? Visit www.jessrizzuti.com.