Alexandra DeClaris: Fashion Designer and SMU Sibling

Alexandra DeClaris is a 22-year old fashion designer living in New York City. Graduating from Regents College in London, England in May 2011 with a major in Public Relations, she moved to New York City in September to pursue her passion for fashion by working for Vanity Fair.   After a couple months she decided to focus all of her attention on a handbag project she began a few years ago. At the age of 19, Alexandra blossomed in to her desire for high-end fashion. She always invested in designer handbags but was ready for the next level of fashion. She was in search for an exotic skin handbag, however was shocked by the $6,000 price tag that usually accompanied them.  Instead of dishing out the cash, she decided to source manufacturers overseas to create a vision she had. Through days of research and communication with python skin producers in Asia, she had a sample made. After friends, family, and shop assistants saw the bag, they began to shell out their wanted orders, so she decided to place a bulk shipment with more designs and colors. By sourcing the manufacturers herself, Alexandra was able to create and provide customers with beautiful exotic skin handbags for more affordable prices. What started as merely a personal product interest has expanded into a full line of handbags and clutches.  The product line contains real python, ostrich, and pony hair printed clutches, hobos, and totes.  All bags are complete with a pink interior to add a feminine touch!  

What are your favorite fashion designers that have inspired you?
Right now I am really into everything by Helmut Lang. There are always great pieces that are classic but have some kind of edge or symmetry. Lanvin, Matthew Williamson, and Louis Vuitton are always my go to when I feel like treating myself.  All of these designers have a sense of trend but make each piece classic, which is what I base my collections on when I am creating them.

Has living in London and New York inspired you?
London was really responsible for opening my eyes to fashion and glamour. In London everything is much more formal and classic which I love. However, the fashion in New York is insurmountable. The energy and creativity continues to inspire me every day.

What advice would you give to fashionistas interested in pursuing their own business?
If you like what you do in life, you will be a much happier person.  No matter how uncomfortable or scary something might be, it is important to take risks because you can never fail if you learn something.  It is hard work to create a dream, but if you realize that the challenge is more about staying mentally positive, that is 90% of the battle.”

Check out her current website http://alexandradeclaris.com and look out for her new updated website with more inventory coming in the New Year!