Indie Designer Interviews: Jobie Boutique

| Posted Apr 16th 2008 8:56PM by Mallory Whitfield
Filed under: Bags and Purses, Designers, Interviews, Under the Radar

We love all of the amazing independent designers out there. In order to find out more about just what makes all of these creative types tick, we present to you an ongoing segment called Indie Designer Interviews.

Today's interview is with handbag designer Joanna Baker of Jobie Boutique, a line of handcrafted bags perfect for women of any age. Joanna creates hobos, satchels, wristlets and cosmetic cases using high-quality, classic materials such as leather and suede paired with cotton canvas in timeless prints like paisley and houndstooth.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. Jobie Boutique was founded by me, Joanna Baker, as a result of my undying love of fashion and desire to create. I am currently an undergraduate art student whose future plans include Parsons School of Design. I'm passionate about creating accessories that are functional, comfortable, and chic. The classic Jobie bag incorporates cotton canvas in timeless prints like paisley and houndstooth with rich leather and suede.

How did you get started as a designer? I started out small, without a website, making ribbon belts and simple tote bags. Once I found out that people wanted to buy my creations, I decided to turn my hobby into a business.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Don't spread yourself too thin. If you're just starting out, create a line that is focused and concise. My biggest problem is having too many ideas and not enough resources to execute them. Thoughtfully consider each design and its relation to the rest of your collection. The rest is trial and error.

Who are your favorite designers? I'm loving Michael Kors, Catherine Malandrino, and Kate Spade.

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves?
Fashion Musts:
for fall/winter- a sweater dress over opaque tights and flats
for spring/summer- flip flops!
Beauty Musts: Bare Minerals Foundation and Mineral Veil, Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss

Where can people find your work? You can find my line of bags and accessories on my website, www.jobieboutique.com and hopefully soon in stores across the US.

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