Tags

, , , , , , , , ,

Jessica Bratich Johnson is one amazingly determined and hard working woman. A former karate champion, Jessica has now turned her talents to designing her own handbag range. Having already released 2 collections this year, the ‘Jessica Bratich’ brand is definitely one to watch…

1. First of all, tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a 30 year old Perth based handbag designer. I launched my first collection this January and recently launched my Spring/Summer Collection at Perth Fashion Week. I am a former athlete and have done karate for 22 years and competed at both national and international level.  After retiring from my sport I decided I wanted to do something else in my life and after studying fashion and having experience in both retail and wholesale I decided to launch a label of my own.

2. Describe yourself in 5 words.

Confident, assertive, driven, athletic, determined.

3. Who are your style icons and why?

I don’t really have “style icons” as such, but I do like the style of Blake Lively as I think she know what works for her body.

4. What are your favourite brands?

Chanel, DKNY and Perth based designers Zhivago and Aelkemi.

5. What drove you to start your accessories brand ‘Jessica Bratich’?

The lack of handbags I loved  in a still accessible price point. Something that was still unique and not mass produced but I didn’t want to pay $2000 for one.

6. Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

Hardware. leather swatches, textures and passing comments from friends about what they need and want in a bag. I find an element I love and tend to design the bag around that element.

7. What kind of woman would carry a ‘Jessica Bratich’ handbag?

One that wants to stand out and make a statement by carrying one of my bags. The Desert Skies Collection shows an evolution from my first collection and I have pushed the boundaries further as to what type of woman would carry them.

8. What are your favourite pieces from the ‘Desert Skies’ range?

The Michelle (the big yellow heavily studded travel bag) and The Louise (the soft travel bag with a mixed of orange and stone coloured leather).

9. What advice do you have for women when it comes to accessories?

Make sure you have a selection of pieces that suit every occasion. When choosing a handbag always go for something you love – don’t just settle. Remember statement pieces can always jazz up any outfit.

10. What essential handbags should every woman own?

An oversized clutch – nothing worse than not being able to fit in everything in the bag you have.

A Travel Bag – perfect for plane travel but not too big that you couldn’t get away with using it as a day bag, I love a big bag.

The slouch bag – an easy over the shoulder bag than can still fit heaps inside and you don’t have to worry about carrying it.

You can view and buy Jessica’s range online at www.jessicabratich.com