Interview with Charles L. Thomas Handbag Designer Extraordinaire

Charles L. Thomas is an amazing up and coming handbag designer and personal friend of mine! His designs range from classic to avant garde and are all reasonably priced. I personally own at least 4 of his handbags and have given them as gifts to my mom and my sister.

I had the opportunity to interview him recently and find out what makes him tick!

BV: When did you know you wanted to become a designer?

CLT: I've wanted to be a designer in one capacity or another ever since I remember. I didn't actually know I wanted to be a fashion designer until I was in my early teens and learned how to sew using my mother's sewing machine.

BV: When did you start designing handbags?

CLT: I started putting pencil to paper in 2003 and quickly thereafter had my first Collection in 2004.

BV: Why handbags?

CLT: I've always had a love for rich colors, shapes, textures, and luxurious materials and I wanted to create something that would enrich and complement a woman's wardrobe at any age, any size and socioeconomic background. It was this desire that led me to designing handbags. I felt that there was so much out there that really only relied on the latest trend and not what a grown woman actually wanted. So my designs are geared toward making a woman's life better through not only style but superior function, durability, and comfort.

BV: What inspires you?

CLT: Two things do it for me. First, Classic Hollywood Glamour which is my biggest inspiration. Timeless greats like Rita Hayworth and Audrey Hepburn have always fueled my passion. Second, and most importantly, are my customers. I really take the time to listen to their suggestions, feedback, and input. After all they are the reason I do what I do!

BV: How do you choose the names for your designs?

CLT: Each design is named after women in my life who have inspired me and/or have given me the courage to believe in myself and my abilities. For example, The Shirley, one of my most successful designs is named after my mother. In June 2009 she passed away right before the launch of of my latest success the Big Shirley (pictured above) so this bag is extremely personal to me and I know she would be very proud.

BV: What's next in the pipeline for you?

CLT: I have so many things planned for this year and beyond. I'll be adding new and exciting versions of the Shirley, Claudia, and Sandy bags. Plus a couple of new designs into the mix! After numerous requests I will be expanding my Collection and adding a line of wallets. I am also gearing up to launch a fun lower price bridge line called CLT Swing Collection. This Collection will come in fun shapes and yummy color combinations with the same quality craftsmanship, made from eco-friendly leathers and fabrics.

You can purchase Charles L. Thomas handbags online at CharlesLThomas.com, or Shoebuy.com or at Revenge Boutique in Palm Springs and Bungalow Salon in Rancho Mirage.