We took some time out to interview Harriet and learn more about her inspiration, day to day life and what’s next for her in the fashion world.

Harriet Sanders – Handbags with classic style

Harriet Sanders was born and raised in Cheltenham. She graduated from London College of Fashion in 2009 and soon after Harriet had three bags selected to be sold on ASOS.com as part of their LTD100 Collection 2009. The bags sold in seconds and Harriet Sanders Ltd was born in February 2010.  Harriet’s inspiration comes from the idea of simplicity, good quality, and colour, she explained to us about her concept, “I wanted to create a classic collection of bags that were fully functional and highly aesthetically appealing too”.

Great design from Harriet Sanders

We had a question and answer session with the designer herself to learn more about the label.

Q: What encouraged you to get into this industry and what was your route into  it?

A:  From a young age I was very interested in fashion and knew I wanted to work in some area of the industry.  It was when I was about 12 that I started designing and making bags.  People would comment on them and that encouraged me to try new designs out.  I realised then how much I loved it so immediately started looking into the best avenues for getting into that part of the fashion world.  I decided I wanted to go to London College of Fashion and worked very hard to make it happen.  I did an Art Foundation Diploma in my hometown of Cheltenham, which helped me to secure a place at London College of Fashion.  After graduating I worked on a business plan, bought an industrial sewing machine, and started making.  I have spent the last year building the reputation of the business and expanding the places I sell.

Q: What is a typical working day for you?

A: A typical working day starts with me reading and responding to emails.  As I am the only employee of the business, I have to cover all areas of the work.  So emails could be from stockists, suppliers, or customers.  I will then spend the day in the workshop, making as many bags as I can.  On a Friday and Sunday I do Old Spitalfields Market, so these days have extra early starts and often late finishes too!  Once a month I do a market in Cheltenham, so spend the whole weekend there.  And often I have other events happening, which require me to work away from home.  I do love that my office and workshop are at home, although it does sometimes mean I work more than I should!

Bold colours from Harriet Sanders

Q:  Where do you get your ideas from for your collections and where do you source materials from?

A: I get inspiration from everyday things.  Shapes that interest me, clothes or other bags I see, current trends.  I always make simple bags, as my workshop is very basic.  But I enjoy using colour and concentrating on detail, so that is what makes my bags so different.  I have a few suppliers of materials.  There are a couple of suppliers in London that I visit for leathers, magnets, rivets, etc.  I also have a supplier in Scotland.  I am also a keen carboot sale visitor, and often find little bits of unusual things to decorate the clutch bags with.

Gladbag Collection

Since graduating Harriet has concentrated on her Gladbag Collection; a range of bags handmade by Harriet in London. Harriet’s appreciation for detail and colour make her bags all the more unique and interesting. We love the bright, bold colours that can really bring an outfit together. Clash with this seasons brights, or make a bold statement against your neutral palette. Perfect for all seasons.

“I never follow short term trends – they aren’t worthwhile for me.  My bags are classic and always will be.  As long as the bag is versatile to work with any outfit, I put it in my collection”.   The collection hosts an array of very luxurious bags,  made from leather and lined with suede, hand crafted in Harriet’s workshop.

“I get really excited about all my bags.  I love coming up with a new design and when it actually works it is usually my favourite, until the next bag comes along!”

We hope that  some day Harriet Sanders will be a household name in the world of handbags, fabulous British design. For stockists, check out the Harriet Sanders website and ASOS Marketplace.  We’re also very excited to announce that Harriet will have a pop up boutique at the Pantiles Fashion Festival this August in Tunbridge Wells.