“I enjoy being able to have the vision to see things without being able to see them in front of me.”, Elizabeth Phillips
Noblivity Spotlights Emerging Designer Elizabeth Phillips
Company/Designer Name: Elspeth New York / Elizabeth Phillips
Designer Background Summary:
I am an innovative designer that is quickly rising in the world of fashion. After graduation from The Ohio State University, I lent my talent and ideas to classic luxury brand companies such as Coach, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. After falling in love with accessories, in 2005 I paved my road to success and founded ELSPETH NEW YORK. Now, I use my freedom to compose eclectic combinations of material, colors and textures. My determination combined with my extensive background as a fashion designer, ELSPETH designs are on the cutting edge of style.
How did you get started?
After graduating from college and moving directly to New York City, I entered the fashion industry directly with the passion for accessories. I worked for a wide range of companies and realized my true obsession for creating and designing a great product. I wanted to create accessories that were individual and alive with passion. A product that consists of true quality and the attention paid to details,
What inspires your designs?
Everyday living, inspires me to design, living in New York City is a great way to find many muses. I also depend on finding materials that help me mold and create a handbag. Feeling the texture and seeing the colors I can envision what the creation will be.
How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer?
ELSPETH is a premier handbag line that is known for its luxurious materials, vivacious colors and incredible quality. To give women a transformational accessory that allows her to transition from morning to night with ease. My target customers’ age range is between 25-55 years old women, aimed for the busy girl who needs a bag from work to play.
What designers inspire you?
My ultimate favorite designers have been: Jean Paul Gaultier, Alexander McQueen, & Salvatore Ferragamo as my Classic. As many designers come into my life and inspire me, these designers have held my attention for years.
What obstacles did you have to overcome?
When starting your own business as anything else it has its ups and downs. I have worked on many projects that had the potential to take me to the next level. There would be that fall out that would lose that opportunity for me. No matter how much work or energy I put into it, that is always hard to swallow because you are an emerging designer.
How did you overcome them?
I keep my head up and focus on the end result, if I work hard and keep a clear mind I am able to figure out my problems. Having your own fashion business tests your skills from every level; the success you receive is a true reflection of yourself. It is not about the money or fame; designing is about escaping reality and having the ability to think out of the box.
What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?
My greatest moment has been when I sold my 1st handbag to a client.
What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?
The day that I started making my custom hardware rather then using stock hardware. I have designed plenty of hardware for other companies so when I got the chance to open up my designs, it makes them that much more special.
If money were no object what would you do right now?
I would go on a leather buying spree and make as many bags as I could. Being an independent designer you don’t have the luxury to develop and develop styles after styles. There are so many ideas I have on paper and in my head that making every one of them is a goal I try to attain.
What are the best and worst things about being a designer?
The best thing about being a designer is being able to use my imagination and keep my creativity flowing. I enjoy being able to have the vision to see things without being able to see them in front of me. The worst thing about being a designer is finding flaws in the world.
Describe your typical day?
My typical day is always changing; I learned to live in the moment. Since I am a one man team, I work on different aspects of my business everyday. One day I might need to be in a creative mindset and design, the next day I might need to think clearly on numbers for financing.
What’s your philosophy of life?
To take a breath when times get overwhelming, you will be able to get through this. Relax and enjoy the ride no matter how stressful times can get.
