Earlier we gave you a sneak peak of the affordable luxury handbag line, M. Clifford. Now you have a chance to take an inside look at the chic line and designer Martha Clifford.
Ms. Martha: True Passion
The innovative mind behind the lux designs that M. Clifford offers is none other than CEO and designer, Martha Clifford. Ironically, Martha didn’t begin her career in the fashion industry. In 2000, she sold her successful catering business to pursue a lifelong interest in fashion and retail. She began with a small line of Italian leather handbags, which soon became a local hit. With dedication and recognition, M. Clifford evolved, relocating to New York City. The widely popular M. Clifford line is known for its class, unique style and effortless nature.
More Pieces That We Love
The Grace clutch is edgy and fun while the large chain link design is bold and retro. With a variety of three draped chain link color options, The Grace is soon to become your fool proof evening event clutch. The chain itself is from a collaboration with our favorite accessories designer, PONO. Better yet the chain doubles as both ornamentation and a handle!
This is the cross body strap bag that isn’t from your Grandmother’s closet. The abstract cross weaving pattern fused with zipper and chain detailing combine to create a unique day bag.
Every woman needs a satchel that sets itself apart from the rest. The Claudette does just that with subtle pleating, ruching and metallic patterns. The artistic handle and zipper detailing complete this statement bag.
Exclusive Interview
The 949: What was the inspiration behind creating an affordable line of luxury handbags?
M. Clifford: I wanted to put out a collection that everyday women can afford while including the luxury Italian leathers and details in design that are important to me.
The 949: Do you design and create all of your handbags solely?
M. Clifford: Yes, I design them all! I actually sew the first sample, then have my manufacturer create them in leather. I’m proud to say all my handbags are made in the U.S.A..
The 949: What inspirations do you use when creating collections?
M. Clifford: I am inspired so much by the history of fashion and film, not only personal style, but the style of two industries that continue to create inspiration, innovation, and beauty.
The 949: How would you describe your personal sense of style? How does this reflect in M. Clifford designs?
M. Clifford: My style is classic with a twist, which I feel shows in my handbags. I love the detail in ready to wear and other accessories collections, especially shoes. I love incorporating the appreciation of those details into my designs.
The 949:What type of consumer does M. Clifford attract? What message does your line convey?
M. Clifford: My bags attract people of all ages. They are usually women looking for quality and something unique that will remain in style for years to come.
The 949: You recently began creating handbags after tapping into your love for fashion and sketches. Do you feel that people often doubted your work?
M. Clifford: I think I doubted myself more than other people did because I didn’t attend any fashion schools that focused upon design. Because of that, I was worried about competing with those who studied fashion in school. Now I find that there are many designers out there who are just like me.
The 949: Do you think that your Southern background influences the line? If so, How?
M. Clifford: Not in the perceivable way, unless it is the classic feminine styles I offer.
The 949: Why did you decide to root M. Clifford in New York opposed to your native state North Carolina?
M. Clifford: I don’t know if I’m totally rooted in New York. I just believed it was probably a good place to start introducing my bags since New Yorkers are always accepting of new designers and ideas.
The 949: What has been one of the constant M. Clifford best sellers and why?
M. Clifford: The Garbo Hobo because of its unique styling, price point and its ability to cross over many seasons. People also rave over how light weight it is, especially for a hobo. The Terrell chained is another favorite because of its unique strapping detail, ability to carry a laptop and the attention that it received from the press.
The 949: What have been some of the biggest accomplishments for M. Clifford?
M. Clifford: Having my bags sold in Nordstrom and Anthropologie! Also, having the Terrell Chained featured on this season of Gossip Girl.
The 949: What have been setbacks that M. Clifford has faced, pre and post creation?
M. Clifford: Pre creation, one of the biggest setbacks was loosing 600 square feet of leather (that was not insured) somewhere between here and Italy. Post was probably when a store ordered a good number of my designs in one color. There was a mix up in communication and the bags were made in the wrong color combination. We didn’t find out until the store contacted us after shipment. We had to redo the bags at our cost, of course. Lesson learned!
The 949: Do you have any words of wisdom for those aspiring to work as fashion entrepreneurs and designers?
M. Clifford: If this is your dream, hang in there because it can take a while for you to achieve success. Be prepared for the expense of creating your own business before you start it, so really make a strong business plan.
Special Thanks: Martha Clifford and Jenn Zinn
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