I MET THE MAKER: CLARE VIVIER AT NEED SUPPLY

Need Supply (which, if you don't already know, is an awesome clothing and lifestyle store in Carytown, with a huge online presence) periodically hosts an event called "Meet the Maker."  They invite designers whose creations they stock to come to Richmond, have some cocktails, talk about their work, and mix and mingle with Richmond's finest…and by "finest," I mean anyone who is interested and knows how to RSVP.  Luckily, I was amongst Richmond's finest a couple of Fridays ago, when handbag designer extraordinaire, Clare Vivier, was the guest of honor.

Clare V. Foldover Clutch

What I knew before I went was that I love Clare V. bags.  They are simple, cool, utilitarian (she is single-handedly bringing back the fanny pack), and yet incredibly luxurious and thoughtful.  What I didn't realize was that the woman behind the cool bags is at least as cool.  I only spoke to her for a quick minute, but her graciousness and down-to-earth appeal was evident all evening.  It makes me so happy when I realize that there are really amazing people (women, in particular) creating, building, succeeding, and maybe even becoming "famous," all the while maintaining their sense of humility and appreciation for the people who support them.

Before the event at Need Supply, I owned two Clare V. bags -- a pretty iconic Foldover Clutch (a birthday present a couple of years ago that has become a staple) and this Simple Tote that I bought myself for Christmas, since no one took the hint from my Christmas List post.  But the deal was that if you purchased something the evening of the event, there was someone on-site doing free monogramming.  And really, why would you say no to that?  So, I got this gorgeous, soft Messenger Tote (in Poppy) with my initials in gold foil.  'Twas an impulse splurge, to be sure, but I have no regrets!

I'm not sure I'm cool enough to pull off the fanny pack, but if I ever get cooler, I'm eyeing this one.

I strive to make wardrobe choices clear and easy for women who are short on time, overwhelmed by their closets, or transitioning from one period of life to another.  Let's connect!