I fell upon an amazing handbag line called Rough Roses (11859 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles; 424.248.3026) at the December Thread show in Downtown LA. When their PR rep recently reached out to me to visit their new LA store, I jumped at the opportunity. The store is beautiful, housing soft, brightly colored leather bags against deep wood shelves, and dark cement floors. Not only do the bag’s rare colors against the metal detailing catch your eye, but so does the price tag. No where else will you find such high quality bags for such a low price. Already a fan of the line and owning one of their beautiful creations, I was happy to send the designer some questions of my own:
When you created Rough Roses, what was your main focus on differentiating yourself from Linea Pelle?
What differentiates me from all other companies? Some companies, such as COACH, have affordable luxury. I want to be affordable fashion luxury. This is what is missing in the market. Affordable bags that have cutting edge fashion and total luxury look and feel.
Where did the name Rough Roses come from?
I came up with the rough and my son the roses. The point was that I wanted a cutting edge feel but the romance and sensitivity of roses. So the combination made sense.
What was your inspiration behind the rare colors of your handbags?
Color, for me, is important. It makes people happy and distinguishes them from others. It give a woman a chance to express who she is. So, even for Fall seasons I still like to add some color.
Are you planning on keeping it just women’s accessories or expanding into men’s as well?
Men’s some day
What’s your favorite thing to design and why?
Handbags because it is so much more complicated to make than anything else, including clothes. You are using real skins which involve a skill on how to get the most from it. Plus you need functionality plus design and of course price. This is always an amazing and fun challenge.
What can we expect down the line from Rough Roses in terms of handbag design?
More of the same. Great shapes, great quality leather, function and affordable prices.