Noblivity shares a moment with Hellena Archais …”My fascination with the ancient world is what inspires me.”, Theologia Karahalios
Company/Designer Name:
Designer: Theologia Karahalios Company: Hellena Archais
Designer Background Summary:
Theologia: I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada from a Greek background. As a young child, I had a passion for drawing/sketching and is the reason why I attended after school art classes to release my creative side. I grew up in a very strict household but was very close with my family, and worked in the family business for a long time……..a restaurant obviously!
Noblivity: How did you get started?
Theologia: As I got older, I decided that fashion design was something that I wanted to do. I enrolled at Regent Academy and soon after graduation, my plan was to start my own fashion line, but my obsession with leather handbags made me choose an alternate path. I realized that had more of an interest for handbags, and I wanted to follow my heart and design what I love.
Noblivity: What inspires your designs?
Theologia: My fascination of the ancient world is what inspires me and I try to incorporate that in my collection. The art and culture of ancient Greece and Egypt is really amazing and captivating.
Noblivity: How would you describe your design style?
Theologia: Classic, unique, and timeless.
Noblivity: What designers inspire you?
Theologia: Valentino
Noblivity: What obstacles did you have to overcome?
Theologia: When I decided to become a handbag designer I had no knowledge about handbags. I had to teach myself about leather, hardware, and handbag construction.
Noblivity: How did you overcome them?
Theologia: Patience is really a virtue!
Noblivity: What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?
Theologia: Seeing my mother carry one of my handbags because she really loves it.
Noblivity: Where are you headed personally and professionally?
Theologia: In the near future I would love to expand my company and create leather shoes, belts and other accessories.
Noblivity: If money were no object what would you do right now?
Theologia: I would reside in Europe and expand my business.
Noblivity: What are the best and worst things about being a designer?
Theologia: The best part of being a designer would have to be creating something out of your imagination and watching it come alive. When it comes to the worst things I would have to say there is none. I love every aspect of being a handbag designer.
Noblivity: Describe your typical day?
Theologia: When I wake up in the morning I usually drink coffee, get dressed, and start working on my computer. I have a very simple life.
Noblivity: What’s your philosophy of life?
Theologia: “We sometimes experience moments when earthly illusion is suspended; at these times, we have a sense of what reality is and the truth can be known.”
Noblivity: What’s your favorite meal time setting?
Theologia: Sitting around the table eating a home cooked meal with my parents and sister.
Noblivity: If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Theologia: Nothing.
Noblivity: When will you know you have made it?
Theologia: Being featured in fashion magazine and having a celebrity carry one of my handbags.
