In the day or two that i had in Sydney in mid January, I went to the Manly Markets and had the pleasure of traversing the stalls, littering the streets of Manly.
I'm a massive trinkets and accessories junkie, picking up pieces from all over the world amidst my travels and work. This particular day, it was home grown designer Naomi Levi who sat by her stand of incredibly attractive clutches and handbags. She initially wanted to grab a photo of me holding the clutch (picture beneath and yes, ladies, it fits your iphone in the zipper section too without feeling bulky!).
As we got chatting, I picked up more and more pieces and fell in love with each piece including a new design of an iPhone 5 case, yet to be released.
Here's a little interview i did with Naomi:
Full name: Naomi Levi
Occupation: Fashion Designer/Director at Naomi Levi Leather Accessories
Originally from: Spain
Living where right now: Bondi Beach, Sydney
Star sign: Taurus
1.What got you into creating your own label?
I was infatuated with textures and handbags at a very young age I’m fascinated with color, Shapes &Texture. I like to take a simple idea and re-interpret it to give it some new dynamics.
2.What training do you have?
Fashion design and fashion production at ULTIMO TAFE SYDNEY.
3.What's your favorite print to date?
I LOVE all prints but at the moment I’m obsessed with this exotic fish skin
It’s unique texture and distinctive scale pattern is just beautiful!
This remarkable quality leather is so soft yet very durable.
4. Do you have a favorite bag/clutch that you've designed?
Yes I have two favorite pieces,
The first one is the Byron Bag, its natural timeless and special; while the second -Vollage bag is more of a fashion statement with its unique striking cow hide texture and panels.
5. Who is your muse and what inspires you to design?
My muse is faceless, nameless but can be found everywhere
I see it walking down the streets; I find it in nature, different cultures, music films and history books.
6. Which celebrity would you love to see carrying a Naomi Levi clutch/bag?
I would like to see Sarah Jessica parker wearing my accessories. She’s strong, stylish and bold, such an iconic character!
7. What is the new collection all about?
The magical mysterious underwater world
8. Describe the brand in 3 words:
Stylish, Bold , timeless.
9. Where are the products made and what are they made of?
The products are designed in Australia some are made locally, and some made in different parts of the world.
Our accessories proudly feature luxurious and high end soft leathers.
10. If you were given 3 wishes, what would you wish for?
To stay inspired and connected to the creative source,to grow, expand and to leave my mark on the world through my art.
These are my favourites:
The A/W 2013 collection sneak-peek:
TOCKISTS
URBAN OASIS HARRIS ST, PYRMONT, SYDNEY
BLUE BIRD BLOSSOM CLARENCE ST, PORT MACQUARIE, SYDNEY
HANG GALLERY BROOKLYN RD, BROOKLYN,
SYDNEY
NAKED RUNDLE ST, ADELAIDE, SA
IT'S THE NEW BLACK RUNDLE ST, KENT TOWN, SA
NIKAS ARGENT ST, BROKEN HILL, NSW
ESSENTIAL BAGS &
ACCESSORIES, GRIFFITH, NSW
BLUE ALLURE, YAMBA, NSW
DESIGNER FORUM, ST IVES NSW , FRENCHS FOREST NSW ,
BERWICK FLOWERS, ADAMS LANE, VIC
ELIANA DESIGNS,BALACLAVA , VIC
THREADS AND STYLE,
MANLY WEST, QLD
Stay tuned for more Spotlight Sessions.
With love from Fiji,
Van-Anh xxx
