“Make the most out of every day and find the bright side of every situation.”,  Jess Rizzuti

Noblivity  Spotlights Emerging Designer Jess Rizzuti

Company/Designer Name:  Jess Rizzuti New York | Jess Rizzuti

Designer Background Summary:

My love for accessorizing began at an early age, and was recognized when I picked out my first pair of red cowboy boots. After earning my BFA in Textiles from Rhode Island School of Design in 2003, I furthered my studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology, concentrating on Handbag and Accessory Design. In pursuit of my lifelong dream, my signature collection was launched in August 2008. 

How did you get started?

After learning about the technical aspects of handbag design and construction, I felt prepared for the pursuit of my life long dream of having my own line. After visiting boutiques and seeing what else was happening in the industry I thought my designs could be on a shelf right beside designers work that I had always looked up to. My initial reaction was “what am I waiting for?” So I took the plunge and began researching manufacturers in New York.

What inspires your designs?

Travel has always inspired my work. It’s great to see you new things and new places. I continually draw inspiration from of Architecture, Art Nouveau, Gustav Klimpt, Nature, and Theater.

How would you describe your design style, design signatures and who is your targeted customer?

Jess Rizzuti New York embodies a modern lifestyle while mastering the art of detail. Jess Rizzuti is committed to producing handbags that are congruently beautiful, inside and out.  Upon opening each bag, you will be greeted with a charming print that compliments the leather.  I work with a variety of finest Italian and Argentinean hides rich in color and texture.  My devotion to surface patterns stems from my background in textiles.

What designers inspire you?

Diane Von Furstenberg, Valentino, Nanette Lepore, Stella McCartney, and Tracy Reese

What obstacles did you have to overcome?

I began my business right before the economy took a turn for the worst. It’s tough to maintain what I’m doing sometimes, but I know if my business can make it through a time like this, then I’ll do just fine in the future.

How did you overcome them?

I’ve had to be very smart about how I invest myself financially and emotionally. I have to really think things through and make wise decisions about the course of developing my brand.

What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far?

A friend called to tell me that she was walking on Madison Avenue and stumbled upon a boutique that had my work in the window.

What has been the biggest change in your designs so far?

My designs haven’t changed much since the conception. Colors may change, as well as the choice of materials, and I will always continue to build on the silhouettes I have developed thus far. But I think it’s important to remain true to my signature look, stay consistent, and acknowledge the strength of my designs.

If money were no object what would you do right now?

If money was no object, then I would probably have a boutique and an accessory line that would include shoes, luggage, and men’s leather goods. Some day I plan to accomplish all of that, but for now it’s one thing at a time.

What are the best and worst things about being a designer?

There are many great things about being a designer. It’s great to conceptualize an idea, and see it come to life in a product that not only makes me happy, but also brings pleasure to the people who wear my designs. Not to mention, I always have a wide variety of handbags to carry that are current and modern. The worst thing is that it consumes me 24/7. There’s always work that needs to be done.

Describe your typical day?

My days vary, and are far from typical. A day can consist of stopping by my manufacturer, sourcing materials, designing my website, designing a collection, drafting patterns, participating in a trade show, creating a look book and press kit, or drawing/painting all day.

What’s your philosophy of life?  My philosophy is to make the most out of every day and find the bright side of every situation.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?  I would have taken a business course to try to prepare myself for the endeavor.

When will you know you have made it?  I will feel like I made it once my bags get photographed on the arms of celebrities like Kate Hudson and Sienna Miller.

The Jess Rizzuti Luxury Handbag Collection is available at The MarketPlace Noblivity.com