Your Choice, 2013

Appropriately for today, we look back on the 4 designs that our shoppers (You!) chose for themselves throughout 2013...

No. 4
A simple, re-made saddle bag meets a large wallet. Sturdy leathers, long straps and a cute button. You chose Alex Petit for your casual needs, making our 4th best selling design this year. Created in 2011, this little side-kick is still going very strong.

Alex Petit

No. 3
Strangely, we didn't always have enough of this design  in stock. The leather for it would have to be fluid, and interesting, pliable and strong, and that was not always easy to find. Thanks to some of you, who came looking for this bag, we adapted it to its latest edition - built from recycled garments. On came button-holes, different pockets, sleeve details, and looks, not tried in the years past. Dating back from our first year in making, and landing a deserved spot in the Permanent Collection, Renata is our 3rd best selling style (in fact, it came very close to being No. 2).

Renata: recycled jacket (left) and upholstery

No. 2
An equestrian cross-body, that came to be your favourite right from its first appearance in 2011. Long straps, expandable sides and simple, strong construction. It was a great year for this style: the following grew at our trunkshows, through amazing work and knowledge of our retailers, and at the art shows. With upgraded leather and lining, Permanent Collection's Khela is our most high-end piece, as well as our second best selling design.

Khela

No. 1
Once again, this spot belongs to our favourite (and yours, too) 4 year-old. First coming along in 2009, this design instantly became our classic. Part of the Permanent Collection as well, it is not leaving anytime soon. Having undergone several shifts and transformations over the years, this design is now built exclusively from recycled garments, with all the bags being, essentially, OOAK. This design now has so many different looks, pockets, details, and no two bags look the same. For the fourth year in a row, you chose Sarah as your first choice of handbag from our line...

Sarah

Thanks for your support in 2013 - we're already very excited for what the new year will bring...
Happy and safe New Year from JVD.


Posted by Jolanta http://jolavdesigns.com

Renata 2011

Renata is a tote and shoulder bag, I created for the Spring 2010 Intro collection.
I decided to not let go if the style, as we moved into the Coming Of Age, but I also have come up with some changes I would like to introduce to the Renatas of 2011.

They will still have the long handles and removable shoulder strap, side lacing detail and deep front pocket, only now they will have a softer crown, the handles will be attached on a  longer loop, so they can hang flush with the surface of the bag, when not used; and Renatas will be lined and have four inside compartment pockets.

I recently rolled out the first batch of new Renatas - and they are already available at the WebShop...

My recently found Spring colours: Pale Sage...

Pale Sage

 Walnut Brown:

Walnut Brown

..and Black:

Black

Renata - spacious, versatile and adjustable

I created Renata 2 summers ago, to fill my search for a versatile slouch, which could be worn in several ways, and would look equally good, whilst at it.

Because I usually have more than just one requirement for my bags, along came the idea, that it would be nice, if it were able to change its shape, height and overall profile to suit various occasions.

Also, my disinterest in the use of 'bling' and hardware on the exterior, and love for knot decor took a stand for its place in the styling.

Renata's structure combines a Bucket bag, and a Flat satchel into one, utilizing what is best about both. The rounded bottom adds extra space without adding bulk; and slouchy top without side panels sits comfortably against the wearer's body, allowing them to move freely. It is still large enough to fit your work files, lunch, and an extra sweater....

Size and profile can be changed by snugging up the threaded lace on the side. Renata look equally great worn off the shoulder by the pair of top handles or across the chest by the long bolt-knotted shoulder strap. Has a comfy, somewhat hidden front pocket... Mostly no lining....

Perhaps due to its versatility and soft leather used for it, Renata became the 'underdog hit' of the Spring 2010 Intro collection, and so far, the leader of the on-line sales....

In the fall, we will be continuing to make Renata along with the Pre-Fall 2010 Coming Of Age collection bags.  An array of new colours will be available at my booth at the ONE OF A KIND VANCOUVER  show this December 9 - 12.

We will keep you posted...