”There is still a market for high-end bags by emerging designers.”, Aki Kano
Noblivity finds out what drives Aki Kano…
Company/Designer Name: Aki Kano
Designer Background Summary:
I design bags that strike the balance between trendy and classic, artful yet functional. I have worked over 10 years as an apparel/accessories designer for companies such as Ralph Lauren and DKNY. In addition, I am an oil painter. I studied fine arts at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and studied fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. When I started designing accessories, I knew that I found my niche. In running my company, I use my experiences in both commercial design and fine arts.
How did you get started?
I have held several apparel design posts at various fashion companies in NYC. But, at my most recent design experience at DKNY Jeans International, I switched from designing clothing to handbags and belts. This was something that happened by chance with good timing, and was pivotal for me to start Aki Kano New York. I learned how to sketch and spec handbags and belts on the job, and was exposed to the exciting world of accessories more than I ever had before and loved it. I combine my love of fashion, art and accessories by designing my handbag line, Aki Kano New York. My handbags are practical with an artful touch. My painting background impacts how I see the shape and form of the bags and my fashion design background has given me wisdom and experience.
What inspires your designs?
My inspiration and logo is the Bee. Bees produce honey, are sociable, and diligent. Like the Bee, I am dedicated to create handbags that are sweet, flexible to our social calendars, and strike the balance between fashion and practicality. In the process of designing my line, I am similar to the “worker bee,” meticulous and attentive, committed to create a beautiful product. My hardware with bees imprinted on it adds a whimsical touch to my bags.
How would you describe your design style? Simple and classic with clever detailing.
What designers inspire you? I love the quirky yet elegant designs of Anya Hindmarch. I like the simplicity and the thoughtful shapes and lines of Yves Saint Laurent accessories. I also like how Miu Miu reinvents vintage looks in such striking and modern ways.
What obstacles did you have to overcome? I think launching my line in the midst of a recession has been a major accomplishment. People told me that now’s not the time to launch a high-end handbag line and would discourage me. Listening to my gut instincts and heart and following through with a goal against a strong tide is challenging.
How did you overcome them? I found stores to carry my bags and realized that there is still a market for high-end bags by emerging designers. Women always want something beautiful and useful, even in a recession.
What has been your greatest moment on your journey so far? I was drinking coffee with my friend in a café and by coincidence saw a well-dressed woman with her young children, carrying my bag. She looked so natural toting my hobo. It was a reality to me that moment that my bags are out there being used by real people.
What has been the biggest change in your designs so far? My color palette has become more neutral.
If money were no object what would you do right now? I would hire a national sales rep as well as a full-time PR person. I would want to find ways to sell my bags globally.
What are the best and worst things about being a designer? The best thing is when I see my vision successfully realized in a sample—If all design elements work and the sample looks good, I am very happy. The worst is when I get a mental block or when I don’t feel motivated.
Describe your typical day? I go to the gym in the morning—that’s the only thing typical about my day.
What’s your philosophy of life? Don’t underestimate yourself–
What’s your favorite meal time setting? Getting lunch or dinner with a good friend.
If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? Nothing.
When will you know you have made it? If I am still inspired and excited in the next 10 years and still designing my line.
