Fashion accessories are just as important as the actual clothing that one chooses to wear. Accessories are in high demand and are becoming more fabulous and “eye catching” to the customers’ who purchase them. Shoes, necklaces, and other jewelry are a very important to the enhancement of ones apparel. In addition, wallets, handbags, and even book bags are getting more attention than ever these days. Natalie Bandele, who is the founder of Native Soul Designs, is a new designer from Detroit Michigan with an eclectic and artistic eye that focuses on creating fun and refreshing items such as handbags, tote bags, and wallets by utilizing natural resources. I had an opportunity to sit down with her briefly to learn more about her creations.
EJB: What do you use to create your products?
N: Discarded product wrappers and duct tape of all colors.
EJB: What influenced you to design handbags and wallets using natural resources?
N: I have always taken items that were used for one thing and turned them into something else. I’ve done this since childhood. I saw discarded product containers, such as chip bags and candy wrappers, and would wonder what I could make from them. I had never seen purses or wallets made from them, so I figured that I could come up with a way to turn discarded wrappers into functional art. Most importantly, it saves the earth from horrible emissions. Products like chip bags can be damaging to the atmosphere
EJB: When did you start making the duct tape handbags and wallets?
N: I started making duct tape products over six years ago.
EJB: What can consumers expect to pay for your products?
N: My products are very cost effective and start from $5.00 and up.
EJB: A very close source told me that you teach classes? Is this true and if so where do you teach them at and also what is the age range?
N: (smiles) Yes I do teach classes. I teach them at the Detroit Library upon request of the librarian. My next class will be March 9th 2011. The time is TBA and the cost is free…all ages are welcome.
EJB: Who is someone that you would like to introduce your products to?
N: Oprah! Once you make it to her show you know you’ve made it big time! (Laughs)
EJB: What is your ultimate goal for your designs?
N: I would like to have my own store here in Detroit, as well as Chicago, New York, and California…ultimately, I would like my items to be available on an international level. That is my main goal…
You can find Natalie’s accessories at:
D Tours
1048 Woodward Ave. (located in the Compuware building)
(313) 965-3313
Sugar Land Island Books and Gifts
Located in Soo St. Marie
Maxwell’s
32416 Industrial Rd.
Garden City, Mi
(734 ) 427-5300 ext. 7
Comments
I own a Native Soul hand bag. If you are environmentally conscious you should definitely make a fashion statement with one of Native Soul's recycled products.
I have two purses, one Tote Bag, and two wallets :-)
Thank you for the comment.
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