The Perfect Bag for Spring into Summer

"Virtue" clutch in Rust

"Explorer" shoulder bag in Armour

Impeccably designed bags from the Kaia Peterka label. These are from the Spring/Summer 2008 collection. I love the intricate detail of the Armour leather selection. The Rust leather selection is truly unique, and exquistely modern.

Interview

Kaia Peterka Handbags

HM: What kind of woman wears your bags and/or who is your target consumer?

KP: The women who wear my bags are women on the go. They need chic, versatile bags to get them through busy days (and nights), and they want to look effortlessly glamorous as they do it.

HM: What is your philosophy on design?

KP: My design philosophy revolves around the idea that sometimes simple can be better. By focusing on clean lines and simple shapes, the fine details and materials become more central. This clean approach also allows me to eliminate superfluous weight that often makes bags a burden to carry. Each piece is meant to be both timeless and modern, something a woman can wear for years to come and always be in fashion.

HM: What is the main function for your bags? Are they more functional or more pleasing to the eye, or both?

KP: It is essential to me that designs are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Why choose one when you can have both?

HM: Do you have a personal favorite design that you created?

KP: My favorite design so far is Suspenseful. It is the perfect combination of the features I try to put into every design and the result is a very unique bag. It holds a lot if you need it to, more than one might imagine at first glance. The suspended strap construction allows the bag to cinch, but whether nearly empty or full, it retains its great shape.

HM: Are there any new and innovative ideas or concepts you are working on?

KP: The collection I’m working on for Fall 2008 is inspired by the Medieval spirit. Considering beauty against the backdrop of war, the bags mix hard and soft, strength and vulnerability. It is a little different than the concepts I have worked on to this point, and I am very excited about its release.

Kaia Peterka Clutches and Handbags

Kaia Peterka handbags are exceptionally constructed. My "Starlet" clutch, in the color "platinum" has this edgy, rugged flair that I love, and adds texture to every ensemble. However, the leather is soft and eye catching. Each season Kaia finds a new artistic or cultural inspiration and searches for the unique colors, textures, finishes and special treatments that will bring her concept to life. The attention to material plays out in deliciously soft leathers and perfectly worn textured looks. Every bag features a luxe brocade lining and convenient places for a woman's essentials.

HM: Describe your style in one word.

KP: Urbane

HM: What is your best-kept fashion secret?

KP: My tailor! It’s amazing what a few nips and tucks can do.

HM: Where is your favorite place to shop?

KP: Palermo Soho in Buenos Aires.

HM: Who is your style icon?

KP: Bianca Jagger and Audrey Hepburn are both high on my list. While very different, they are both fearless, dramatic, and pretty.

HM: What is the biggest fashion mistake a woman can make when getting dressed?

KP: Looking like everyone else.

HM: What is one lesson you are grateful for learning throughout your career in fashion?

KP: What makes you different makes you great. Differentiation is the key to being and staying relevant.

HM: What advice would you give to young fashion industry professionals trying to make their fame?

KP: Learn from history, but don’t repeat it. Trust your instincts. Have patience. The goal is ever-changing, so it’s best to enjoy the ride.

HM: If you could give women a fashion tip to be fabulous what would it be?

KP: Dress for the occasion. Whether on safari, painting, or gardening, you’ll be more inspired if you look the part!

KAIA PETERKA

New York

http://www.kaiapeterka.com/