What is your design philosophy?

I think of a handbag as a beautifully designed object. I make sure all the elements add to the functionality of the bag as well as the form. Then I’d consider a bag’s longevity. I’m not [a great follower of trends], and I love the idea of a wardrobe made up of items from various seasons, so I’d consider how I’d feel about a bag in a few seasons’ time. And I always try to put my own spin on them so they feel unique. It’s important to me that the brand has a certain playfulness to it.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is quite clean. I love a pair of tailored trousers with good heels – it always looks chic. I also love block colours – they add a bit of fun. I mainly mix designer pieces with vintage. This keeps the vintage pieces looking modern.

Is there a ‘Sophie Hulme’ girl? Who is your style muse?

I never design with a particular woman in mind. I try to design beautiful things that can be worn in lots of different ways. I love seeing my bags being worn on the street. It’s interesting to see people [incorporating] them into their own style. I’ve also always loved my Mum’s style in the ’70s. There are old slides of her travelling around America with my Dad in a camper van and she looks amazing!

What is your must-have accessory for the season?

My must-have accessory is definitely the Craft square tote from our AW15 range. [The leather bag] has a wooden charm attached to it, and the plates have been stitched on rather than riveted, which adds a lovely handcrafted touch. We’ve also made the charm chain a key ring so you can buy it separately and add it on to any bag from the collection for a similar feel. It comes in multiple colours too.

What are the daily essentials in your handbag?

I always have my Sophie Hulme spine wallet. It’s big enough to fit everything in! Then there are my Celine sunglasses, my BY TERRY Touche Veloutee [concealer], my Soleil Tan de Chanel bronzer, my Hello Kitty x bic collaboration pens, a Leuchtturm notebook and my Hello Kitty stickers.

Are you a ‘shoeaholic’ or a ‘bagaholic’?

A bagaholic obviously! Though, I do love my Celine loafer-style heels at the moment – they are super chic and they can make a simple outfit look cool and modern.
 

Do you have any interesting upcoming projects or collaborations?

I feel that any new projects in the near future will be a natural extension of the brand and of the products we already have, but there will definitely be a lot of exciting things happening with the brand very soon.

8. What are your goals for the brand?

Over time we will [diversify] into other product categories and our own retail. It is an exciting time for the brand as we are growing so fast and have lots of amazing opportunities. However, I feel very strongly that anything we do should fit in naturally with the brand and be something I can be proud of. I’m not prepared to compromise.