Teagan: Taupe Anaconda and Mink Ostrich- $4,380

I am thrilled to introduce you to one of the most talented luxury designers I have ever met. Erin Voorhies is the design mind behind Kempt, a company that captures timeless elegance in beautiful handbags for the discriminating modern woman. This is not just any handbag. A Kempt piece is a timeless accessory that is meant to be shared for generations. Each bag is individually numbered and made in a repurposed factory here in the U.S.  And what’s more…Erin is one of five finalists for the Independent Handbag Designer Awards (Best use of Crystallized Swarovski Elements) taking place on June 17th in New York. I recently had the privilege of speaking to Erin. I was excited to learn more about the inspiration for her designs and exciting news about the competition. Here is a little bit of my interview with her:

LDB: Tell us about the genesis of your design career. I have read that your interest in design began as a little girl. Did you always know that you would be a designer of handbags, or did you begin with other interests?

I loved accessories as a little girl. And I’ve always loved working with my hands. After graduate school I began working in textile design where I learned more about different fabrics and textures. When I was introduced to handbag design, I loved that it was beautiful and functional.

LDB: What do you enjoy most about your process of design?

I’m inspired by color and form. I’m looking all the time for items in the city and in nature that will help inspire a form and color palette. I always have a camera with me, because I never know when I might see something that sparks an idea. Then I start

Sadie: Mullein Pink Ostrich $1,610

working with my hands, experimenting with different fabrics and textures to decide what works best. I’ve worked with materials such as alligator, leather, silk chiffon and ostrich. I love sophisticated neutrals with a classic style that will last!

LDB: We understand that you’re a finalist for the prestigious Independent Handbag Designer Awards! Tell us about what this experience has been like for you.

I was really encouraged to participate in this by my publicist, Gloria. If it weren’t for her, I probably wouldn’t have taken the risk. But it has been a great experience. I’m in the process of manufacturing the final bag now, so I’m working closely with the individuals in the factory to make sure it is finished on time. It’s a little stressful right now, but so exciting! Swarovski provided the crystals for the bag and they are really beautiful. I’m very excited to reveal the finished piece.

LDB: Where would we find you when you aren’t working?

I’m always working! But in the off-chance that I’m not, I’m probably strolling through museums here in New York or enjoying nature. But even when I’m not working for Kempt, I’m keeping my hands busy all the time with one craft or another.

You can see the actual sketch that Erin submitted for the competition and vote for her design here. But get your vote in soon! The winner will be revealed in just a few short weeks. You can learn more about Erin by visiting her blog. Here she discusses her unique materials, design inspirations and other interests. Currently, Kempt handcrafted bags are available for purchase at Peter Hermann and Boutique Mirabelle in New York City, as well as online. Stay tuned for more on Erin’s new collection including her “green eco-collection” with three sillouettes coming soon!

Thanks for taking the time to talk with us, Erin. We look forward to watching Kempt Handbags take off in the world of luxury fashion! Keep us posted on your success.