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designer q+a | simone camille
words_dena rochelle
Wardrobe stylist Simone Harouche has mastered the boho aesthetic by creating a colorful range of embellished bags. It should come as no surprise that the first person to take notice of this was none other than Nicole Richie. But these eye-catching satchels also have history.
Simone amassed an incredible collection of fabrics and clothing, ranging from Thea Porter Kaftans to 19th century dowry textiles, and one day she decided to make something from this treasure trove. The Original Simone Camille bag was spotted on the arm of the bohemian style poster child Nicole Richie, and a line of one-of-a-kind carryalls was created. Crafted from vintage choli dresses, dowry pouches, wedding sashes, wall hangings and antique tribal costumes—and collected from places such as India, Pakistan, Egypt, Morocco, Peru and Nepal—the bags are lavishly embroidered with light-catching coins, tassels and beading to add further detail:
If the amazing color is too much for ya, you’ll probably fall for the skins collection (like I did) made of a unique selection of luxe leathers. I’m smitten with the Moon bag! Here’s what Simone has to say about the Moon and the rest of her collection.
Dena ~ What inspired this design?
Simone ~ “The Moon bag is a great everyday bag. I wanted to make something functional but still keeping with the Simone Camille bohemian aesthetic. The moon bag is big and can hold a lot, but at the same time, the size doesn’t overpower.”
Dena ~ How has your line evolved since it launched?
Simone ~ “My line has evolved a lot from its inception. In the beginning, I only offered one style—The Original, which is a shoulder bag made of vintage patchworked fabrics. Three years later we not only make a wide range of vintage styles, but also offer suede and leather handbags. Now, I like to think the line offers something for everyone!”
Dena ~ Which style will you be carrying this fall?
Simone ~ “I will be carrying all the bags!!!! But the Shelley bag, Simone bag and the mini jaguar will be in heavy rotation.”
Dena ~ What’s in your bag?
Simone ~ “Lobello Chapstick, Simone Camille small cosmetic bag, by terry lip gloss, my red Celine wallet, Paul Smith Roomily sunglasses, iPhone, moleskin notebook and pilot g-2 07 pens.”
Dena ~ What designers/brands do you love to wear?
Simone ~ “I love to wear Givenchy, Rick Owens, The Row and Isabel Marant.”
Follow @simoneharouche and @BySimoneCamille on Twitter to keep tabs on this cool collex.
