2010 Independent Handbag Designer Awards

The 2010 Independent Handbag Designer Awards were held at Parsons New School for Design, in New York City, June 16th. The competition had attracted hundreds of designers from all over the world, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. 35 finalists were chosen to participate in the ceremony and to win a chance at one of eight lust-after prizes. Sponsors include InStyle Magazine, Swarovski Elements, American Express, Timberland and Singer Sewing Co. An esteem panel of judges from within the fashion and accessory industry judge the finalist designs and chose the winners.
The evening started off with the press taking snap shots of well known designers, stylist, editors, and buyers in the beautiful open court yard of the school. For such an event as this, the fashion was amazing. But, the shoes and handbags were to die for. Designers wearing their latest creations showed off among piers, as all mingled and enjoy cocktails. Soon after, guest retreated to the Tishman auditorium were the ceremony took place. Presented by Emily Blumenthal founder and creator of the IHDA and Handbag Designers 101, had the audience in anticipation as special presenters from each category and winners were named. Tears, joy and heart felt speeches echo through the room.

The winners are: Catherine Meyer (Follis) for “Best Handbag in Overall Style and Design”. She will have the opportunity to create a limited edition bag under the Kate Spade brand name. Her bags will be sold at Saks Fifth Avenue, and she will receive a marketing booth at WWDMAGIC. Veronica Suarez (EXEX Handbags by Veronica S.) won “Audience Fan Favorite” for her taupe embossed calypso clutch. Her winning handbag will be featured on InStyle.com. Briana Smith (B.Thalle) won “Best Handmade Handbag”. She will receive a designer feature on the Singer Sewing Company and Coats and Clark Website’s. She ill also receive a new Singer Curve sewing machine and an opportunity to create a downloadable pattern for the ultimate craft audience. Andrew Krumholz (Escama Studio) won for “Best Green Handbag”. He will receive a chance to collaborate with Timberland to develop a product for sale in stores. Dalia Pascal (Dalia Pascal) received the prize for the “Most Socially Responsible Handbag”, and will have the opportunity to gain world exposure by showcasing her bags on WorldofGood.com by eBay. Aimee Kestenberg (Tammi Tales) was presented with the best use of CRYSTALLIZED-Swarovski Elements. She will receive a design sponsorship that includes free access to crystals and Swarovski know how. The winning bag will be produced as a limited edition and will be given domestic and international consumer and industry exposure through several CRYSTALLIZED channels and communications tools. Michelle Vale (Michelle Vale) won “Most Innovative Handbag Inspired by Mark”. Michelle will be featured on meetmark.com. Her winning design will be recreated for sale on a global marketing platform with Mark. Si Kim (Morpholision) Won for “Best Student Made Handbag” and will receive a prestigious apprenticeship with Carlos Falchi. The surprise presenter of the night was all American fashion consultant and highly recognizable TV personality Tim Gunn who presented Kate Spade’s Deborah Lloyd with the Iconoclast Recipient Award.
Congratulations to the finalist, and winners of the 2010 Independent Handbag Designer Awards. Some of whom flew to New York City just for the night’s event, and had to rush back the next day to their respective countries or cities. To find out more about the IDHA, and how you can enter the next open call, visit www.handbagdesigner101.com/