November 27, 2021

Behind the Brand: JJ Winters

A good handbag can be the punctuation mark on any look, and we knew that with so much to celebrate this season, our members could benefit from a statement-making style. That’s why offering the Nikki Clutch from JJ Winters as a choice option for our winter box was a no-brainer!

This metallic, faux-croc clutch will be the star of whatever you pair it with, whether that’s your holiday party best or just your favorite jeans and t-shirt, and that’s just the beginning of what this L.A.-based brand has to offer! To give you a closer look at the maker of this seasonal standout, we chatted with founder and designer Keila Carmer to give some background on JJ Winters, including the surprising source of inspiration behind its designs, how to wear the Nikki Clutch, and more!

Not yet part of the CURATEUR community? Head HERE to see all the ways to join, including with our brand new winter box, filled with over $400 worth of Rachel Zoe-approved seasonal upgrades for a fraction of the price!

How would you describe the JJ Winters aesthetic in just three words??
Bold, stylish, and versatile!

 

Why do you think so many women gravitate towards bags as the ultimate style accessory?
Bags are one of the easiest and most fun ways to quickly change up your look! As our moods change, our bags can too. I think being able to mix and match handbags with so many different outfits makes them the ultimate style accessory.

 

Can you share a bit about the design process and how you get inspired to create different styles?
Every product starts with a sketch! I sketch all of my ideas out on paper, and then I leave my sketches out on my desk with all of our freshly sourced leather swatches so that I can look them over for some time. This is when I really begin to think about color and hardware selections and any edits that might need to be made. To me, a sketch is the only way to work up a design and refine it to the point of presentation. From there, the sketch goes into production and we edit the prototype until it is perfect!

As a designer, you never know when inspiration will strike. Although I feel inspired while working in our DTLA HQ, it is usually while taking a break that I find myself the most inspired. I love mapping out new ideas and bringing those new ideas to life, whether it’s building off an existing style or coming up with a brand new design and pattern altogether. I find inspiration traveling to new places and spending time in nature, whether it’s at the beach, on the hiking trail, or just daydreaming in downtown LA. I think working in the Fashion District is also a major inspiration in itself—the area is a melting pot of different aesthetics and cultures. The people and fashion here are very inspiring! Leathers, fabrics, colors, and patterns are also BIG sources of inspo for me!

 

Which bag are you currently carrying and what made you choose it?
The Mia Convertible Crossbody is my go-to bag right now! I am obsessed with the size! And the fact that I can use it as a crossbody, a wristlet, or a clutch. I have been switching back and forth between the Hot Pink Leather and the Sedona Snake, but I am loving it in our Honey Leather and Latte Hornback, too!

 

We love how the Nikki Clutch in this metallic animal print feels so glamorous! Where would you go carrying this bag, and how would you style the rest of your look?
The Nikki Clutch is the perfect companion for a fun night out! Whether it’s a dressed-up dinner date, a casual concert, or a fun and flirty outing with your girlfriends, this clutch was made to do it all!

 

How do you want our members to feel when incorporating this bag into their wardrobe this season?
Sexy, confident, and fun!

 

 

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