Today we’d like to introduce you to Jade.
Jade, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Well, growing up, fashion was my life. My mom was an artist-of-all-trades, so to speak, and taught me some really basic things about sewing and such. I started out making clothes for my dolls from old socks, and by middle school found myself altering hand-me-downs or my own too-small clothes. It wasn’t until I attended Bauder college to study fashion design that I really began to understand how to produce my imaginings from scratch. After college, I did a lot of work for other designers and as a wardrobe stylist for theatre, film, and musicians, and also various photographers. These all pushed the limits of what I knew about design and how I went about it.
While working for a children’s wear designer, I began designing backpacks to coordinate with the toddler outfits. This was an incredible opportunity for me as the brand was all about mixing prints, using unconventional fabrics, and thinking out of the box. Even after working with that designer, I found myself gravitating to a bolder aesthetic in the prints and fabrics that I would choose for other projects.
Throughout the years I have played around with making handbags of different types, but in 2012 I decided to really experiment with different remnant fabrics that I had on hand. I had some ideas and inspiration that needed to be exerted, and so I created a really random assortment of clutches and totes. I can honestly say that many of those purses came out terribly – but a spark was ignited! It seems that I had a whole new level of creativity and inspiration when it came to designing handbags. So, although it was uncharted territory for me, I decided to shift my focus.
Today, I am incredibly pleased with the brand I’ve built and how I have honed my skills through books, youtube videos, taking apart store-bought items, and lots, and I mean lots, of trial and error. I have incredible support in the handmade-community and mentors who have kept me inspired, motivated and innovative. It’s really exciting to establish such a stylish and cutting-edge brand that was created with my own hands and a bit of ingenuity.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Actually, the only thing that has been smooth is the fabric! Since I am one who wants to know the ins and outs of anything I touch, learning how to best make handbags that are functional and not an exact copy of what’s already being done has been quite the challenge. When I first decided to switch from designing clothes to bags, there weren’t any stateside classes that offered courses on creating the product, just theory. I finally found a course in Italy, which is a country that is known for its craftsmanship. After researching for a few years, I decided to attend school in Rome. I applied for scholarships, saved, and did fundraising. Unfortunately, there came a point when I realized that I was incurring more expenses than I was saving, so I had to abandon the idea. What made this decision so much harder was having so many people who knew of my attempt to study abroad. Not only was I having to deal with my own disappointment and discouragement, but I had to navigate that of others, as well.
It’s also difficult making headway in an industry that no one else I know has done before. Trying to find mentors who could advise or direct me was a huge obstacle. Even when I was finally introduced to a successful and prominent handbag designer, she seemed to only be interested in offering encouragement, but not real-world assistance or instruction. So, navigating the inner workings of the accessories world was made that much harder as I tried to forge my own way and utilize tips from others in similar industries.
And, it costs. It all costs. No matter how I’ve tried to work around it, there are expenses that can’t be avoided. In order to develop this brand that now gives me such pride, I’ve had to spend money. It is possible to find ways to spend less, but I have not found a way to grow without first investing. I am now convinced that it’s quite unlikely to achieve anything of value without putting value into it. And it has definitely been a challenge to determine which aspect requires funding, which can be put off, and which could be done a different way. And since I am not rolling in the money just yet, this challenge requires discipline and finesse.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with ‘G’ NÄ TÁ Accessories Co. – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
‘G’ NÄ TÁ is an accessories collection all about breaking away from conformity with totes, clutches and crossbody bags that express an independent style. This line was born from a desire to change the idea of beauty by presenting a collection that pushes the fashion and earth-conscious envelope (without apology). New takes on classic shapes like the envelope clutch allow one to have all of the sophistication desired without feeling like a clone of everyone else.
Currently, each piece is handcrafted by me, from start to finish. There are fabric collections that may have several shapes from one print or pattern, but only a limited number of each style in each color is made available. This enables each bag design to be unique and nearly exclusive for its patrons. Plus, this minimizes the number of leftover textiles, which are used in future bags in numerous ways. And each bag currently has a minimum of 15% reclaimed vinyl, beyond whatever remnants are used in its production. I want to be sure to begin a habit of sustainability that will grow as the company grows.
The ‘G’ NÄ TÁ brand also features shaping that is slightly different than seen in typical counterparts. Every silhouette is named after a legendary black woman who unabashedly expresses their style and views. The Magelou shoulder tote draws its name from a famous writer, singer, and activist. Elliros is a mini tote named after an actress and producer with an anomalous style sense. Amerrieux gets its bohemian style inspiration from a socially conscious musician and singer. There are several others and all are a personal homage; I don’t intend the inspiration to be imposed or taken too literally.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am currently reviewing my processes so that I can move to manufacturing locally. This will enable me to produce more and not rely on my speed alone. Likewise, I anticipate procuring remnant and unclaimed fabrics directly from designers and/ or textile companies. Continuing to consider the impact of the fashion industry, I look forward to helping keep more and more fabrics from making their way to landfills.
And per usual, there will be more new silhouettes and fabrics introduced in the near future.
Pricing:
- Haberry Clutch – $70 and up
- Amerrieux Handbag – $70 and up
- Olivas Shoulder Tote – $80 and up
- Elliros Laptop Tote – $75 and up
- Naimone Crossbody – $92 and up
- Hidira Crossbody – $78 and up
Contact Info:
- Website: gnata.etsy.com
- Email: info@gnatabags.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/gnatabags/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/gnatabags/
Image Credit:
Stella B Visuals, Jordan Allen White
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
