“Difficult takes a day. Impossible takes a week”, Ishan Singh
Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Ishan Singh
Company/Designer Name: Cherry Berry/Ishan Singh
Designer Background Summary:
My grandfather started working in the fashion industry some 65 years ago for one of the biggest footwear companies of that time. I therefore had the opportunity to be exposed to the world of fashion from a very early age. My parents have been actively involved in both the clothing and footwear industries as well. It comes as no surprise that fashion has always been second nature in my family. As I grew older, I developed my own unique sense of style – daring to be different.
How did you get started?
Given my background, I had always wanted to start my own designing label. I attended a several trade shows from various industries and did the necessary homework to better evaluate my possibilities. Yet, the reason I fell into handbags was a product of fortuity. It was a series of events that eventually led to the creation of Cherry Berry – and I wouldn’t change it for the world.
What inspires your designs?
Anything to everything can serve as an inspiration. Certainly, with a commitment to being at the forefront of style, I ensure the styles are designed with the “in” colors and shapes. Advocating for both the environment and the ethical treatment of animals, only the finest genuine vegan leathers are used for the handbags.
How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer?
The Cherry Berry designs are different from the conventional, boring handbags you might find nowadays. The designs are fashion-forward, the colors are season-specific, and the shapes, too, vary from one season to the next in order to keep up with the current market trends. The bags are exceptionally unique! Yet, the bags remain highly practical and versatile so that women can carry a Cherry Berry handbag on a daily basis or on a special occasion to dress up an outfit. I believe that any strong independent woman who loves to accessorize will also love Cherry Berry. Plus, it’s also a benefit that purchasing a vegan handbag helps the environment and helps reduce your carbon footprint!
What designers inspire you?
Many of the haute couture fashion houses, Louis Vuitton and Gucci for instance, have a remarkable history. They have started as small family-run enterprises to become, over time, the empires they are today. They have been able to adapt with society and the different trends over time, and still remain the benchmark for style. To be able to start from scratch and build a world renown brand is certainly inspirational.
What obstacles did you have to overcome?
As any designer and businessperson can attest, starting a company is always difficult and requires a great deal of time and effort. It was no different in my case. The recent economic downturn did not help either. People are generally more cautious regarding their expenditures given the economic situation. As a result, it becomes a greater challenge to be noticed as a designer and have one’s products be placed in the spotlight.
How did you overcome them?
Perseverance, determination & willpower.
What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?
The greatest moment was the step we took in December ‘09 towards becoming an international brand. Cherry Berry officially launched in India in association with PETA at their annual Gala. With several celebrities present, Cherry Berry made a great impact in its debut. It was very exiting to be involved in the second launch in less than a year – this one being half way across the world!
What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?
I guess the biggest change occurs practically every season. The new designs are drawn up with current trends in mind. As such, the shapes, sizes and colors all change to reflect the style of the upcoming seasons.
If money were no object what would you do right now?
I would probably launch a worldwide ad campaign in order to establish Cherry Berry as the premier handbag brand in the world.
What are the best and worst things about being a designer?
The best thing about being a designer is when people express how much they adore the Cherry Berry handbags. It is always a pleasure to hear comments – good or bad – from the very people who I am making the bags for. Moreover, seeing people on the street with Cherry Berry handbags is a great feeling too. It always puts a smile on my face. J
Describe your typical day?
There is no such thing as a typical day…not in my world at least.
What’s your philosophy of life?
“Difficult takes a day. Impossible takes a week.”
If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Nothing really. I mean, sure mistakes were made, but that’s part of the journey. There are highs and lows in no matter what we do in life.
When will you know you have made it?
When Cherry Berry is recognized internationally onthe same platform as the Burberrys, Louis Vuittons and Bottega Venetas of the world.
The Cherry Berry Handbag Collection is available @The MarketPlace Noblivity.com
